I think that I must be doing birthdays incorrectly. For the past couple of years when this day rolls around I find myself not really caring. I am not really bummed that I am now a year older, but I am not really excited about it and making plans either. It is just there. Just another day but instead of being just another day older I am a whole year older. Maybe when the kids are older and the days aren't so scheduled I will enjoy them again. Though I doubt it because then I will be even older!
But looking at this from another perspective, I have been through my fair share of enjoyable experiences. I have had many "best year(s) of my life". And I have so many more wonderful years to look forward to. Sometimes it is hard to remember that the firsts don't end after that first birthday, first tooth, first day of school. There are first crushes, first big projects, first slumber party, first dances, first dates....the list is endless. The pride I felt when my children were taking their first step or saying their first word was overwhelmingly emotional. But the pride I felt when my daughter nailed the gymnastics trick she had been working on forever and when my son stood up for a friend against a mean kid-despite how terrified he was- were even more emotional. Getting older doesn't have to be a bad thing. It comes with wisdom, memories, and accomplishments. Those creases around the eyes and mouth aren't "wrinkles". They are laugh lines that are momento's of a life well spent... and they are beautiful.
I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving to add to your memories!
Vicki
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