Nineteen seventy-one

Ah what a year- what a life! My twenty nine year old sister in law asked me today if I felt older and actually I don't. I explained that I really don't feel much different from year to year and I think I can thank my kids and God for that. I am in good health- I can't say that I have aches and pains yet, and I still have great vision! "My kids keep me young," I explained. She doesn't have any yet and was just divorced a year ago. I had thought afterwards that maybe she longs for some of her own and that I should have said something else.

I am blessed. I mean really blessed. I have phenomenal relationships with both of my parents and that is something that I have wanted forever. It's something that I will never take for granted. And I have been blessed also with Joy who also loves me unconditionally and wholeheartedly even when I haven't been so loveable. My husband of nearly thirteen years still makes me laugh and also loves every aspect of me- I have truely found my soul mate. My kids complete me. Today, Tyler and Katia both had plans with friends so we only had Tayton for much of the day. I felt so empty without them with us. I absolutely cannot imagine the empty nest phase of life- I will be soooo sad. I have to also say my extended family is also a real blessing to me. So many of them have shaped who I am today. And last, but not least, I have my faith and my true love from God. Without that thread that was sewn in my life early on, I know I would not be where I am. He was with me always even when I "wasn't with him". His hands were silent, but still holding and keeping me safe. Thank you Lord for my life and each and every blessing and trial that has been in it! My hope and prayer is that each will know this kind of love.