My little red tether is my anchor in running with my friends. A beautiful guide dog has been my tether/anchor in mobility and independence for 17 years: 1. Pantera 2. Cricket, and now my beautiful 3. Georgina (Georgie). A life of family and friends is my joy and anchor in life.

The human spirit is stronger than anything that can happen to it. CC Scott

Saturday, July 4, 2009

Happy Birthday to Natalie (and our Country)

Happy Birthday, Natalie! What a joy to arrive in San Diego yesterday to see Natalie, Adam and Dahlia! We spent time at the beach, walking through Coronado, lunch outdoors, amazingly, yummy desserts at Extraordinaire DessertsSitting in the sun, eating yogurt, and chatting. Does it get any better than that! (only if Steve could of joined us - he had to work)
Enjoying the beauty of Balboa Park while opening presents - what fun!
Since Natalie's first birthday, we have always gotten her a red/white/blue outfit as part of her birthday gift. This year, I thought - maybe I could let that go ... but found myself being drawn to the search of finding something red, something white and something blue ... so many sweet memories. I laugh remembering the year she wanted a red skirt and Steve and I searched all over and finally found one! The stores kept directing us to other colors and we kept saying - its got to be red.

I recently heard a message on the radio last week challenging us to look at Independence Day with gratitude. I have been reflecting on that this week. The blessings I experience are abundant each day. The 4th of July has had a very extra special meaning to our family since Natalie was born on the 4th of July 24 years ago! I remember fireworks going off and it feeling a little surreal that our baby was coming! I was 20! Throughout the years, I have rechecked the math thinking maybe I was 21 but no! I'm 44, she just turned 24. She is such a joy, and I am so grateful for the blessing of being her mother and her friend. Happy Birthday, Natalie. The fireworks are in celebration of you, your birthday and all the amazing blessings we enjoy living in this great country.

2 comments:

Lacey said...

What a fun time it looks like you had! So glad you were able to enjoy the day!

Lisa and pups said...

How fun that you look for red/white/blue outfits for her. My sis was born on halloween and we always do something similar for her! Love those cute traditions! Glad you got to visit in person, I bet she enjoyed it too.