birthday candles

Today is my birthday and I am definitely starting to feel a little homesick. I haven't had a moment like this yet and sure enough it has to happen on my birthday. I am so thankful for my loving family and wonderful friends that have made this day special for me, especially being away from home. I never really had to spend my birthday away from family, except in college and even then I was close enough where they could come up and see me.

Growing up, birthdays were huge in my house. It was your special day and you got to do what you wanted. In the mornings, Mama would make whatever you wanted for breakfast and for me that was usually french toast. We would open cards and presents at the breakfast table and my Daddy would usually sing "Happy Birthday" to me. He always had a way to make me laugh. In the evenings, I could either choose my favorite meal or we would go out to eat at my favorite restuarant.

I have had some memorable birthdays, but one in particular stands out. I was turning 13 and I had two friends spend the night from church, Lauren and Allyson. My mom brought out the cake and my dad came in from the garage with a blow torch to light the candles on my cake. All of us scattered and could not stop laughing at his sense of humor.

To my family, thank you for making each year even more special than the last. I miss and love you dearly and wish you were here to share this day with me, but I know you are here in my heart! To my fabulous friends, thank you for remembering and taking the time out of your day to share your love with me.