Happy Birthday To Me!

The bright colors of spring are blossoming and the sweet scent of flowers fill the air.  It causes me to have an extra pep in my step—it’s May, and it’s my birthday month! I’m glad you are here to join me as I walk you on a journey through my many years (59) of birthdays. I won’t bore you with each birthday, just two.

I don’t remember many of my birthdays growing up, but my 16th birthday was one I will never forget.  I woke up to keys to a new (to me) car. Both of my older sisters had already had their turn at the wheel of this car, but my dad had it painted and as a mechanic himself, he made sure all the stuff under the hood was in great working condition. He even had a cassette tape player installed. I loved my baby blue Plymouth Duster.  I was very excited and truly so grateful!

My adult birthdays tend to run together, but I know that the most important thing to me has stayed the same for all of them.  It is a time to gather with my family and friends, share laughter and create lasting memories.  Usually, my husband or kids plan a dinner and time together. But, this year, I’m the planner of my own birthday.  I will only be fifty-nine once, so I’m making it extra special.   

• I am taking a vacation day on my birthday, which means I can sleep a little later and hang out around the house.
• I plan to read out by the pool most of the day.
• We are taking steaks for a dinner at my daughter’s house.  The kids can run around wild! 
• I sent my family an Amazon wish list to give them birthday gift ideas.  Seriously, I did. 
• We are having cupcakes and ice cream for dessert.  I might eat two! I ordered them from my favorite bakery. 
• I plan to laugh a lot.
• I am already so grateful for what is ahead, Lord willing.

It’s fun planning your own birthday party, and it takes the stress off your family.  As I blow out the candles on my birthday cupcake, I will be filled with an overwhelming sense of thankfulness—for the love of family and friends, for the opportunities that have come my way, and for the simple joys that enrich my life each day. It’s a time to express appreciation for all the blessings, big and small, that surround me.

So here’s to May—it’s my month!  As I begin another trip around the sun, I do so with an open heart and a spirit filled with gratitude. I truly want to make the most of each day, embracing the journey, and cherishing the memories along the way. Happy birthday to me, and may this May be filled with love, laughter, and endless blessings!