45

Yesterday was my 45th birthday, and I have to say it was pretty much the most perfect birthday ever. It was one of those days when everything fell into place, even though we didn't have any plans.

The day before, I realized that my driver's license would expire on my birthday. I was not looking forward to spending my day at the DMV, but I was actually in and out in 10 minutes with a new driver's license. Best of all, I do not look like a convict in my photo.

My mother did not have such luck. She went with me, determined to get her license renewed. At 83, she actually hasn't driven in a couple of years, but she wants a license anyway. Unfortunately, she didn't have the right paperwork. Fortunately, we had plenty of time to go eat lunch together at Panera, which is a rare treat for us.

When I got home, the house smelled amazing. My daughter had made a chocolate cake AND cleaned up the kitchen while I was gone. I found a present on my front porch from a sweet friend and dozens more Facebook greetings.

After my parents awoke from their afternoon nap, the kids and I picked them up and headed to the mountains. It was over 70 degrees here, and we had a short but beautiful hike on the Foothills Parkway. It was a little bittersweet for me, though. My Dad—my strong, strong, father—could not make it up the trail. He went about a quarter of a mile with us and turned back. I had to take a deep breath and keep going, treasuring even a quarter of a mile in the forest with my father.


We came home to Randy grilling steaks and making all kinds of delicious side dishes. After dinner, cake, and the most perfect gifts from my family, we played a couple of rounds of cards with my parents.

I am overwhelmed by this life at times: by the simple pleasures of family, friends, beauty, good food. My heart overflows with gratefulness to my God who is the giver of all good gifts. I am blessed beyond measure.

Linked up on Amy's Finer Things Friday