You Say it's Your Birthday ...

... well it's my birthday too!

I did a couple birthday posts here and here where I revealed a few things about myself, actually 52 and 54 things, one for each year I've been on this planet.

I was going to add another 2 more things to the list, but as I read those posts again I realize some of the things on my lists have changed.

It's so cliche' but in truth, the older I get I've learned the things that were important in past years are diminished by life's gifts we become aware of with age.

My list's have some "things" on them, by definition, tangible items. Today, my list of things  that are important to me aren't anything that I can buy.

I appreciate every morning I wake up. Really, I give a silent "thank you' each morning when I hear my alarm sound.

I'm blessed to have a home, a job, food and clothing and good health. I love my family and friends and appreciate each and every one for being in my life. There isn't anything I take for granted when it comes to these priceless gifts.

I am over the moon to have healthy grown kids that I love more than life itself.

My new grand daughter Mariah has opened a whole new meaning to my life. In the two short months she has been here, she has brought an abundance of joy to our whole family. Watching my daughter mother her brings a smile to my face daily. Seeing how Ray, her daddy, dotes over her assures me she is safe and secure with both her parents. It warms my soul to see my son, her "Uncle Bryan", holding her as she makes him smile.

When I watch the news and see such difficult times now and forthcoming, my appreciation of life inspires me to be a better person. A better mother, sister, friend, daughter ... a better stranger.

So today is my birthday. It doesn't matter my age or weight, if I have wrinkles or a few gray hairs. It doesn't matter what material possessions I've acquired over the years or what the number in my bank account is (or isn't!).

I accept whatever each new day brings. The good with the bad. The only difference is how I choose to live in each moment. Today, I choose to be very grateful.