Thanks, Mom

A long month with a lot of personal changes and no written thoughts as I go through them. I've considered blogging several times, but have really been alone with my emotions much of this past month. Still not quite sure how to express them...

However, this is an overwhelming picture for me today:



I am celebrating the completion of 41 years of life today, and up above it was 8 under my belt. I'm not sad about the 41. As my dad says, "It's better than the alternative!". :)

I have this picture framed in my office. I see people I will not see again until the other side of Heaven. Surrogate grandparents, family acquaintances.

There's a "peak" of Aunt Ruth. (It's kind of funny--she's not text-messaging, but doesn't it look like it?!! :)) I vividly remember this birthday. She had just moved into our home as a freshman in college to help sister Susan in a "time of need". All I knew was this was the closest to a big sister I'd ever get. She gave me a book of children's stories that is still in our library (but got lost in the trunk for a few days before unwrapping the gift!!), and is among my most treasured childhood possessions.

Of course, the best part is the look on mine and Mom's faces. Classic hair and clothing for 1974.

Since I've become a mother I've thought the children should give moms a "thank-you" gift while celebrating these days, so,

THANKS, MOM, FOR A GREAT START TO A WONDERFUL LIFE.