A Great Day Came Shining Through

Yesterday was my birthday.

I wasn't thrilled with the idea since I have been feeling rather crappy lately, but to my surprise God worked his glory as usual and for this I am eternally grateful to Him.

On Saturday, I got a phone call from my father reminding me to enjoy my birthday tomorrow! While I was hoping it would go under the radar he reminded me that it shouldn't! I admire his zest for life and his desire to continually seek knowledge. This gift is so valuable and I will always be thankful that he has passed it on to me.

My Dad...YOU ARE SIMPLY THE BEST!

When I woke up on Sunday my cold was showing a little reprieve, so after taking some cough syrup and three more Advil, I ventured to church after having missed the previous two weeks. Much to my dismay, I was not overjoyed about it being my birthday. Probably because after being sick for 10 days, I was feeling like an old lady. And of course to add insult to injury, I found myself nodding off during the service. I was literally one of those little old ladies on a Sunday morning in church who can't seem to stay awake. Only my skin wasn't wrinkly and my hair wasn't short and curly. Granted it is white, but not quite as white as it needed to be! I blame the Benedril for making me so groggy. Fortunately I was able to stay awake enough to listen to the sermon. It was a wonderful message about tearing down the walls we have built up in order to let God in and use us for His good.

Upon returning home, still feeling sorry for myself, I was greeted with this most amazing gift. I cannot begin to express how grateful I am. Tears came to my eyes when I saw the writing on the envelope. I said to Craig, "Ohhhh, my friend Susan remembered my birthday!" As I opened the card the tears came rolling down my cheeks. It was one of those cards you get every so often that speaks directly to your heart. God uses us in such great ways, and when he brings two or more believers together it makes for such joyous celebrations. Then when I opened the gift I couldn't help but look up and start laughing. God really does have a great sense of humor! He must have talked straight to her heart. He knew I was in a not-so-great place and needed to reconnect to Him. The book she selected is just PERFECT! It's a devotional called New Day New You by Joyce Meyer. I love Joyce Meyer, and I was just saying to Him this past week in my prayer time that I need to work on creating a new me before my 40th hits. How Great God Is! Working His ways through those we love! I have already read two passages, and I look forward to the next 364.

My friend...YOU ARE SIMPLY THE BEST!

As an added pick me up, my mother stopped by to share a few great treasures! After perusing her house for some decorating ideas last week, I noticed a couple of stools that had been stacked on top of each other. I thought to myself what a great idea! Of course I said to her, "when you are done with those I want them." Well of course she found two more and painted them to match my decor. Then as creative as she is she tied a beautiful bird to top. For those that know me well you will understand.

(For those of you that don't, I'll fill you in on a little secret: Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Matthew 6: 26-27)

My Mother...YOU ARE SIMPLY THE BEST!

To end my day we headed over to my in-laws for Sunday Dinner. Is isn't very often that my birthday falls on Sunday. To my surprise, they had streamers and balloons and a great celebration. We had brats on the grill, and my brother-in-law even grilled up some onions just for me! They were delicious. For dessert we had cake and ice cream. Of course Emaleigh, Caleb and Samantha had to blow out all those candles since I didn't really want to share this great cold with everyone! For even more of a surprise Craig's cousin Dawn made a chocolate mousse just for the occasion. THANKS DAWN! (I mean Darcy!)

My Extended Family...YOU ARE SIMPLY THE BEST!

To all of my family and friends, I am overjoyed that you remembered me on my birthday. As I get older I realize, that for most, it is just another day. But truly it is a day to be celebrated beyond measure. It is a day that reminds you how important you are to be a part of a much larger picture.

My Heavenly Father...YOU ARE THE BEST!