I turned 37 yesterday. I never thought this would be my life when I turned 37. But then again, cancer or not, life doesn't always go according to plan. In fact, one of my favorite quotes is "Life happens while you're making other plans." At no point did I think I would be bald, in the midst of chemo treatments, and sore as hell at this stage in my life. Yet that's exactly how it went down. And oddly enough, it was one of my best birthdays ever.
I woke up to Matt and the girls giving me cards, presents and a nice cup of hot tea. After I asked Reagan if she could count to 37 and she responded "um.. no.." I checked my Facebook real quick to find this picture of Hannah, who ran the "Race for Life" 5k in London yesterday.
Needless to say, it brought me to tears and even choked Matt up a bit.
We went out to breakfast literally first thing in the morning. In fact, we got there so early, we weren't even sure if the restaurant was open. Breakfast out is one of my favorite things. I'm lazy, so I'm not about to make more than one thing for breakfast at home. The girls get either eggs OR waffles OR pancakes, etc. But not everything. I love going out and getting a little bit of all that good stuff at once. Don't get me started on hash browns either...YUM. After breakfast we hit the local farmers market for fruit and flowers, and then came home to get ready for our bbq. We spent the afternoon celebrating with my parents, J and Steph, and Matt's family. It's always nice having most of my favorite people in one place (although, I really missed Chris and Hannah...)
But besides all of our birthday activities, it was a day I really embraced my life. Instead of groaning and complaining about getting older like so many of us do - and like I have done the past few years as well, I realized that not only is 37 NOT old, but regardless of age - birthdays are a wonderful celebration of life. I plan on having a LOT more birthdays and being thankful on each one of them that I get to be here, living my life, and making it more and more amazing each year.
I woke up to Matt and the girls giving me cards, presents and a nice cup of hot tea. After I asked Reagan if she could count to 37 and she responded "um.. no.." I checked my Facebook real quick to find this picture of Hannah, who ran the "Race for Life" 5k in London yesterday.
Needless to say, it brought me to tears and even choked Matt up a bit.
We went out to breakfast literally first thing in the morning. In fact, we got there so early, we weren't even sure if the restaurant was open. Breakfast out is one of my favorite things. I'm lazy, so I'm not about to make more than one thing for breakfast at home. The girls get either eggs OR waffles OR pancakes, etc. But not everything. I love going out and getting a little bit of all that good stuff at once. Don't get me started on hash browns either...YUM. After breakfast we hit the local farmers market for fruit and flowers, and then came home to get ready for our bbq. We spent the afternoon celebrating with my parents, J and Steph, and Matt's family. It's always nice having most of my favorite people in one place (although, I really missed Chris and Hannah...)
But besides all of our birthday activities, it was a day I really embraced my life. Instead of groaning and complaining about getting older like so many of us do - and like I have done the past few years as well, I realized that not only is 37 NOT old, but regardless of age - birthdays are a wonderful celebration of life. I plan on having a LOT more birthdays and being thankful on each one of them that I get to be here, living my life, and making it more and more amazing each year.
Thought about you so many times..happy best birthday ever, my friend...
ReplyDeleteI was sad that we couldn't spend your birthday with you, but you were in our thoughts all day. It was great to talk to you and hear in your voice what a great day you were having. Love, Chris and Hannah
ReplyDeleteWe all miss C & H. Glad you had a happy day. There will be many more to celebrate. Stay strong. Love Mama
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday again!! As you know, I've been "folowing" your journey and I too was one of those people who moan and groan about the number... ( *gasp* I counldn't possibly be THAT old!!). But you have helped me to to realize that every Birthday should be celebrated and embraced because you just never know. And be thankful for all the blessings in our lives.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad that 37 was amazing for you!! Here's to many many more!!!!
-Jackie