Last week was my birthday and I turned 43!!

A few years ago it might have just been another day in the life, another sunrise to sunset without any fanfare or celebration, but I’ve learned a few things about myself in the last 3 years that make me appreciate my birthday more than ever….and dang it, I’m going to CELEBRATE my amazing life!! {because it really is AMAZING!!}

One of the best things I’ve learned is that I have the BIGGEST, MOST SUPPORTIVE and BEST FAMILY and FRIENDS anyone could ever ask for. I received messages, notifications, texts, phone calls, visits and presents ALL DAY LONG!!! Each time I received a message, I took a moment to reflect on how I knew this person, who they were in my life and why they were important. Each one of you makes a difference in my world. Each of you bring something important and meaningful to my life. I am grateful for each of your friendships and for the joy you bring to me!!

Another thing I learned is that I LOVE to party!! I don’t need to have a reason to celebrate and go out with my friends….. but if it’s my birthday, why not? and if nobody is gonna plan a party for me, I am NOT waiting around to see what might happen. I planned my own birthday party and we had an amazing time at The Melting Pot. No, it’s not the traditional way to do things, nobody ever said I was traditional. I tend to march to the beat of my own drum and I’m not afraid to be myself, and go after what I want in life.

Lastly, I learned that I just really LOVE MY LIFE and I am grateful for a reason to celebrate. I have been through hell and back the last 5 years. Some days it seemed like it would never get any better and I would never find the joy and peace that I was seeking, but this last year has been transformative for me. This smile is not fake. This girl is happy and lives life to the fullest….and I’m pretty sure she’s not going to let anyone stop her.

Happy Birthday to ME!!

And while I’m here, I need to thank my mamma, who is in heaven, for giving me life….for bringing me into this world and sacrificing so much for me.  I was 20 days late and she was in labor for 3 days with me, I was a rough teenager and a moody adult child. I didn’t appreciate her as much as I should have until it was too late. Thanks mom, thanks for teaching me everything I need to know and for giving me the courage to be myself and live my dreams!! I miss you and I love you more!!!