28

So today is my birthday, and it's kind of a significant one to me because it's sort of a golden birthday. I was born on 2-8-82, and today I turned 28. I love that I have a fun numerical birthday, and it's pretty easy to remember, especially when I have to give it to someone for information purposes. The next time I'll have a "golden" birthday will be when I turn 82...if I live that long! But I do have some great genes in my family :) As long as I can be as active as my Grandpa, Grandma, and Great Aunts have been-that's fine with me! At any rate, I think it's awesome I can have 3 golden birthdays. Not to mention that 8 is my favorite number-it's upright infinity after all!
I have seen a lot of growth in myself over the past year. We have been through so much, and I've learned that I'm much more resilient than I gave myself credit for. I've learned that it's good to look at the big picture sometimes, but when you have a lot on your plate, it's easier to take it a day at a time. I've started to live more in the moment. I love this quote, "Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift. That's why it's called the present..." I want to live this next year according to that. So often we think we are prepared for what life has in store for us, and then God throws us a curve ball. We are not only defined by how we handle those unexpected situations, but how we honor and cherish the gifts that have been given to us now. The gift of family, love, our Mother Earth, etc. I never want to take anything for granted, especially time spent with loved ones because we never know how long we have with them. Already the time for us to move is quickly coming upon us, and I know that I'll be missing my family and friends so much. I am so grateful for everyone in my life, and all the blessings I have been given. God is so good, and I know He gives me the strength to accomplish anything.
I have had a wonderful birthday, and I thank each and every one of you for the birthday wishes you gave to me :) Till next year!
I'll get some pictures posted later this week after I get my camera back from Micah-he took it for his last week on this Pediatrics rotation...we get to move him home on Saturday!!!