Today I turned 30. This birthday has been full of celebrations, but it has also been a good time for reflection. In the past ten years I studied in Spain, got married, graduated from college, worked at Alma College, bought a house, traveled and had three children. It was a decade full of adventures and changes; I wonder what this one will be like!
One of the best things that happened to me this past decade, however, is what you will see in the pictures below.
All of the wonderful women in this picture came to a birthday party for me Sunday night (given by Erin, right of me in the photo). I met all of them in my 20’s. And they are all incredibly special and important to me. They are truly a highlight of the decade.
Aaron and the girls took me out to breakfast this morning, and then some special visitors arrived at our house. Aaron’s mom, sister, and aunt, and also our sister-in-law and her twin boys came for a birthday lunch. Here is a picture of the twins.
Unfortunately Aaron had class tonight, but three of my favorite people in the world joined me for an outing to the park. Here they are, my little sweethearts.
One birthday celebration is yet to come—a celebration with the love of my life. Marrying Aaron was one of the smartest things I did in my 20’s. I am thankful for the memories we’ve created and for the ways we’ve grown and stuck together no matter what life brought our way. God knew what I needed in a husband; I am most blessed! Aaron and I will celebrate my birthday with a trip to Detroit to see the Tigers play. If you know how much I love baseball, being outdoors, and spending time with Aaron, you know that this is the perfect present for me!
As you can see, the things that stand out most from the past decade are not my “accomplishments”—they are the people I love, the relationships I’ve built.
By the way, I wanted to say a special thanks to my mom. I know most women don’t enjoy being 9 months pregnant in August, but I really love having a summer birthday! The weather is almost always gorgeous, and I can usually spend most of my birthday outside. So thanks, Mom!
I’m glad that you had a wonderful birthday. Wish I had known that you had some “fun park time” last night. I almost came up to surprise you.
As always I loved your blog entry. You are a truly beautiful person.
Love you lots – Mom
Glad to see that you had a wonderful birthday! Hope this year is awesome for you and your family!