Happy Birthday To Me

Today was my birthday. It has been an unusual day in several ways. My husband told me last night that I should take the day off and do whatever I wanted. I took the opportunity to go to water aerobics, which I have not done in weeks. Rachel went with me, so the two of us went out for breakfast afterwards.

Many times today I reflected on how blessed I am because of my husband and children. My sweet husband thinks of others so often. He works diligently and efficiently to provide the many earthly things we enjoy. I am reminded of his hard work every time I use our appliances, drive in our Pilot, put on clothing he has worked to provide... He. is. amazing.

Each of my children wrote me a note, and several gave me gifts. I enjoyed each and every one.

I have to brag on a few things my kids have done recently. One of my daughters has moved in with a family temporarily to help the mother. The mom had a baby about four weeks ago and has had an unexplainable incapacitating headache ever since. Doctors have ruled out several things, but there is still no answer, and the headache is still there. My daughter is cooking, cleaning, doing laundry, home schooling two of their boys while she still attends college herself, and works at a local restaurant. I am so proud of her sacrifical spirit for her friend.

Another daughter cooked me an amazing birthday lunch and made my favorite cake. She is always giving rides to others and being generally useful to our family and others.

One of my sons frequently (and today!) meets financial needs of others by buying them a meal or providing a small gift that really boosts their spirits. He is so generous.

Another daughter goes to a nursing home every Monday. There is not much in it for her, but she goes to be a blessing and an encouragement...and she IS!!

That is just a smackerel of things for which I am grateful.

~Joan, thankful for another year :)