It's a wonderful life!

Life traditions are different for us all.  Some people go all out for Anniversaries, Birthdays and different holidays.  Some simply see them as a typical Monday or any day of the week.  I grew up in a family where we celebrated.  I had a "Great Pumpkin", an Easter Bunny, a "Valentine Man", a tooth fairy, a Saint Patrick, Santa Claus and baskets for all of these full of various goodies.  I had Grandparents who called me without fail the morning of every August 4th each on a phone singing Happy Birthday.  This past Monday morning my parents called and they continue to carry on that tradition.  It is special to me.  JT thinks we are all crazy, in a funny way though.  Birthdays aren't a big deal to him.  For me, in the year 2014, it was a huge deal.  It is a time to reflect, to appreciate life, to thank God for one more year.  It isn't about gifts, it is about celebrating being alive.  I figure we celebrate as a nation on the 4th of July.  Why shouldn't I celebrate myself on the 4th of August?    

The best present I received this year was waking up to read my surprise blog I had no idea was being written by JT.  It feels good to be loved and even better to read 43 reasons I am loved.  I have the 43 posted on my burlap board to reflect on daily.  I feel loved everyday but now I have 43 reasons I can reflect on when I'm feeling down.  Admittedly, the massage and dinner at Bone's also made me feel loved as well.      


In conclusion, I have a confession.  I used to cry every year on my birthday.  It was a terrible day for me.  Upon reflection, I don't know if it was my depression, my assumptions of others forgetting (read the book, The Four Agreements), not accomplishing what I felt I should that year or just an overall unhappiness.  

Not this year!  It was a wonderful day, wonderful weekend and...

it's a wonderful life!