Birthday Reflections

Moments ago, my 40th birthday ended. My milestone moment was realizing the ridiculous number of blessings I have. I spent the day surrounded by friends, co-workers and family who all took time to wish me well. It was quite spectacular. Even my cyber-friends got into the act. More than 100 Facebook Friends took time to type out greetings and congratulations. I received more than 2 dozens texts. Some of you have been my friends for decades. Others only a few short months. The gratitude is hard to express. I am overwhelmed and humbled. Thank you.

4 buddies took me to dinner and a movie tonight. They were strangers with me as the only common thread. Our talk focused on football and kids. (Universal Dad Language). We laughed and enjoyed each other's company. They were (to quote our President) "easy company." Perhaps turning 40 makes you more comfortable in your own skin. There wasn't any pretentiousness or bragging, just honest fellowship. Perhaps I am just blessed with wise friends.

Tomorrow is breakfast out with my favorite three women in the whole world. My heart swells at the chance to spend a morning with them. Breakfast is the best meal to eat out. Hands down. We'll joke over toast and smile as we sip coffee. The family will chuckle as I inevitably make a list in a small notebook I carry. (I am a bit list obsessed, but that is another post.) We'll wander about for awhile after breakfast and then the day's lazy schedule will pull us back.

I don't mean to ramble. I am just overcome with the richness of relationships that surround me. If I am to spend this year taking stock of my life, I choose to begin here with those who surround me. My relationships bring me great joy and I will endeavor to pay back that joy in kind.