Approaching 40....

     Well, in a couple of days I'm going to be forty years old. Wow...I remember my 21st birthday party. It was a surprise party put on by my family and friends. There were a lot of people there and I was totally surprised. I almost didn't show up. A friend and I went out for lunch or something and then we parted ways. I almost went to the beach to spend some time alone. My mother had died a couple of months prior and long drives to the beach were comforting somehow. I decided to go home instead. Good thing, too!
     Anyway, 19 years, a husband, a college degree, two teaching credentials, and six kids later, here I am. It's not a bad place to be. I'm not bothered to be turning forty. I'm not feeling old or depressed about it. It's just another day and another decade. My kids have been asking me to buy waffles lately. "Well..." I told them, "ask your Dad to buy me a waffle maker for my birthday."
"Really?" Tim said (this from the man known for "creative," out-of-the-box presents!)
"Yes."
"What else do you want?"
"You and the kids clean the house and then leave for the day - the whole day." Ahhh....the thought of it makes me woozy with pleasure. A quiet  AND clean house...all to myself...Just don't be gone too long, I think to myself. What would I do? I'm not quite sure, but it would be something quiet.
     As the day approaches I remind myself that birthdays aren't a big deal. I don't make a big deal out of friends' and family members' birthdays. But, you need someone to talk to? I'm with you. You need some input or help with a problem? I'm with you. You need something in a pinch? I'm happy to provide it. You just need someone to laugh with? I'm there! You need someone to cry with you? Well, I'm there with you, too. I just can't always remember birthdays or to get a gift or send you a card or give you a call, etc. I don't expect you to do the same for me, either. And I love you just the same. Isn't that so much easier? Good. I'm glad we got that clarified. So, for the rest of the year consider this my heartfelt and sincere HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!