I gave myself two birthday gifts this year. I'm allowed to do that, it's my birthday!

The first was an hour. Just an hour to myself, outside enjoying the beautiful spring with a cup of coffee. The phone(s) were off, I didn't check email, there was no to-do list in front of me, no one to take care of or do something for, no where I had to rush off too and it was nice. I actually heard the birds chirping, smelled the desert blooms, and did some people watching.
It was a chance to recenter my heart where it needs to be, grounded in the peace that passes all understanding. As I sat there, half in the sun and half in the shade, I realized again how thankful I am for all that God has blessed me with and given to me.

The second gift was getting the maid to come over and clean the house. I feel as though I have some of that peace rediscovered above with a clean house. The outside world has plenty of stresses, but once I return to a clean home they slip away forgotten.

It was a good birthday; time with family and a party to look forward to in a couple of weeks.

Work has kept me super busy as of late, but I am grateful for the many opportunities to serve others with their communication needs. In addition, I am able to provide for my family and be generous.

Oh, and if you were wondering, others did give me some gifts, including a lovely pearl necklace from Jer. I wasn't doing it out of self-pity because everyone had forgotten about me.:-)