Happy Birthday to Me

Greetings from Domelandia,

A couple of weeks ago, my daughters threw me a party to celebrate my 60th birthday. Instead of having it out here in Domelandia, they held it at a restaurant/bar in town. I had nothing to do except review the guest list, choose some special songs, decide what to wear, and show up.

Sister came the week before and helped me put the garden to bed. One bright October afternoon, we drove to the farmland east of town and picked apples. We planted iris corms and put a greenhouse over the carrots so they wouldn't freeze. Those activities took my mind off the celebration, but I was nervous as I dressed for the party.

I had mixed emotions and second thoughts about celebrating my birthday. My daughter thought this was funny and said, "Mom, just relax and let this be all about YOU for a change." And it was good. There was an awesome slide show. I got to hold my new granddaughter and hug my grandson. My best friend since 6th grade was there, and our son-in-law's folks came all the way over the Continental Divide to come to my party. Upwards of 40 friends were there, and it was wonderful to see all those people I love.

The food was great, the DJ played my favorite songs, and I danced my legs off! Handmade spice cake for dessert - yummy. The Viking gave me diamonds and rubies. And a .22 Ruger pistol.
(He said it was because I was a woman of many talents). He is my 'slow and steady fire'.

As I watched family and friends talking, laughing, eating, and dancing, my heart overflowed with love. My daughters wanted to give me a memorable birthday celebration, and they were 100% successful. But maybe they didn't know it would turn out to be a way for me to do something I needed to do--to say THANK YOU to the Universe for my life. To dance my love and joy and gratefulness without holding back. Sometimes we need to simply rejoice.

It was perfect. I am a lucky woman.