Happy Birthday Mom!

I don’t think you caught me as we hopped back in the car after we impulsively jumped out to pick some flowers. I watched you in awe. I watched you as my heart felt the most vulnerable feeling.

JOY.

Joy because you are HERE.

Joy because just 2 years ago you were fighting for your LIFE.

Joy because just 1 year ago I wondered if you’d ever be able to walk normally again.

And today??

Today you wore boots! BOOTS!!! Boots that you gave me once upon a time when perhaps you wondered if you’d ever be able to walk in them again. I’m glad I hung onto them. I’m glad I gave them back to you because they were so dang cute with your outfit.

Today you don’t have to focus on fighting for your life. Today you are LIVING life. Living a life with even more intention, happiness and meaning. You are resilient. You are courageous. You are fucking incredible. And you like potato salad.

Today you took the day off to spend your birthday with ME!! Our relationship is like no other. It is the greatest blessing from God. You fill my heart with JOY.

Happy Birthday, Mom!!