Happy Birthday to ME . . .

Had a birthday this past weekend. I've had many . . .

It really struck me this year how blessed I am. I mean, I know this and I realize it on some level every day. But for some reason this birthday really brought that fact home.

No . . . I didn't do anything super spectacular.
No . . . I didn't receive any super expensive or over the top gifts.
No . . . I didn't have a huge 'gotcha' surprise party.

What I did have was a lot of me time. I love guilt-free me time. No schedule, no plans, no looming responsibilities. Just time to relax, a quiet house (off and on) and a day of leisure to do what I wanted, when I wanted to. It was awesome :)

I did receive some very special and thoughtful gifts though . . .

My loving husband (who really struggles with the whole gift buying thing) gave me a new study bible. It was made extra special by the fact that we are currently doing a study of Ezra (yes, EZRA) in our small group. Therefore, a very thoughtful gift - LOVE it!

Michael gave me a special card that immediately brought tears to my eyes (son's can do that you know) and a book from Lifeway - Love and Respect for a Lifetime. Of course he had no way of knowing that Ron would recommend during his message on marriage the next day that every couple own and read this book. A very thoughtful gift - LOVE it!

Priss and the future son-in-law, Brandon, gave me something they knew I both needed and would use. A SUPER soft, cozy, comfortable, over sized, calming pastel mint snuggle blanket. My temp is always lower than everyone else, which results in a constant game of thermostat war. A very thoughtful gift - LOVE it!

My sister - Patty - called from the middle of Belks to sing Happy Birthday to me. I'm sure she received several stares, which I can guarantee you did not phase her one bit. Very sweet. Love my sister!

My Mom and Dad called from their vacation. And for as many birthdays as I can remember, I was serenaded via speaker phone with a sound that I pray I hear for many, many years to come. Love my parents!

I received a text from my brother (who was off on his motorcycle searching for his lost youth), many phone calls and a whole bunch of FB wishes, all of which mean more than the poster(s) probably know.

So as the sun went down on what was already a Norman Rockwell day, I was surrounded by my richest blessings for an actual sit down dinner and definitely reminded of just how truly and abundantly blessed I am.

:)