The big 40!

So today was it ... the big 40! Strange ...

Its been an awesome day for the most past (I'll get to that in a moment). I woke up early as I normally do on Wednesdays for a run with friends. By the time I got back a fresh french press was waiting for me courtesy of my husband. And by 6:30 am my sweet son was cooking me eggs, his specialty, or so he says. After a few mishaps, scrambling about, and one broken egg that never even made it onto the griddle, I was served ... one fried egg (slightly overcooked and WAY over salted!), a banana and three vitamins!

As the day went on, I was surprised and reminded of what good friends I have ... some dropped off gifts, others left me messages. I was even sent a dozen roses and a box of chocolates from dear friends overseas.

Sometimes life gets so busy within our own families (even if in a good way), you don't always have time to connect with friends. But today I was reminded ... and how blessed I am.

My daughter told me her gift to me was playtime and so we did. We spent several hours playing dolls on her bedroom floor. She created the storyline and then our imaginations ran free. It was so very reminiscent of my childhood and playing barbies with my mom, me creating the stories. What beautiful memories.

We went out to my favorite Mexican restaurant tonight with my parents. Simply, or so I thought. But when we arrived I saw my cousin and his wife, who live up north, at the table. What a nice surprise to see them. When we all settled in at the table, I noticed someone else walk in. It was my sister! She traveled all the way to the Pacific Northwest from her home in England to spend my birthday with me!!! Complete, complete surprise ....

Then a sweet text message from my son (even though we were right next to each other) ... "I LOVE U soooo much. Best mom ever."

The greatest gifts are the people in my life ...

And yet sometimes, the greatest challenges as well. As in all families, extended families, differing personalities, thoughts and behaviors can lead to strife and contention, awkward and sometimes hurtful moments. I always try to stay neutral. I do not like drama! But unfortunately a situation like that reared its ugly head right into the end of my night tonight. And without even knowing what was going on I feel like I was put smack dab into the middle of one of those moment! I know there are hurt feelings tonight (truly unknown to me until moments ago).

All I can do is pray. Pray ... for all the people and relationships in my life.

Despite it all, I am truly blessed.

May 40 be about grace and peace and love ...