It’s my birthday – the first thing I did was feed my pets. I’m grateful for the dogs and cat I have, and they really have enriched my life. I am especially grateful for Mitzi- my first dog, the pup that turned me into a dog person. She takes good care of me.

The second thing I did was go outside…and the sun is out! I have been lamenting the fact we have not seen the sun in weeks. I’m so grateful for a sunny day!!

The azaleas are blooming out front – I stopped and looked at them for a few minutes. Their vivid pink amazes me – it seems too bright to be a natural color. I’m grateful for the abundance of beauty all around me.

I got on my rebounder to exercise – I am acutely aware of how blessed I am to be alive and well. I am grateful for the ability to take care of this body that has been given to me. I have lost many friends over the years – friends that I loved, who never got to celebrate this particular birthday. Today I am grateful for the time I got to spend with them. I miss them.

I’m going to church this morning – I’m teaching Sunday school, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to share what God has done in my life. Then I’m going to sing in choir, and I am blessed beyond measure to be able to worship God freely.

I have heard from many friends and family already, greeting me and wishing me well. I’m thankful for children and my grandchildren- I’m blessed to be the mother of four, a stepmom, and a Nana of five (and one more due in September). My cup overflows.

After church, I’m going to a wedding for a dear friend. I love going to weddings, especially now that I am married to my beloved husband. I don’t take him for granted – he was my third chance at happiness, and he is a wonderful spouse, friend, and father. Today as I listen to my friend recite her vows, I know I’ll be reflecting on the 12 years I’ve been with my husband.

It’s my birthday – a day of reflection for me. New Years never brought resolutions for me. My birthday has always been a day for me to reflect on where I’ve been, where I am, and where I’d like to be.

It’s a day to realize how blessed I am. There are so many things I have overcome, and I am acutely aware of them. I remember the hard times. The hard years! I am grateful that I walked through. I hope I keep my perspective.

Of course, I have to thank my parents – without them, none of this would be possible!!