As a rule, I generally try not to focus on the inevitable passing of time that makes me older as each day passes. It’s sort of depressing.

But, birthdays are different.  Because, besides the fact that they mark the passing of yet another year, they are worth celebrating.

It is worth celebrating the fact that I’ve been blessed to walk on this spinning ball in the galaxy for another 365 days.

And, this past year in particular was full of reasons to celebrate. Thirty-five was most certainly a good year.

It was worth toasting with friends to the year gone by and looking ahead to the one to come. It was worth laughing until my sides hurt {and quite possibly spitting red wine in a fit of laughter across my friend’s coffee table – I’m not saying it happened but I’m also not saying it didn’t} with the ones who have walked alongside us through the hard and the broken days, as well as the days soaked in sweet, happy tears.

It was worth a quiet day at home with my little loves and my man to reflect on just how blessed I am. It was worth soaking up the gorgeous sunshine and laughing at our crazy new pup {everyone loves her except our little Chiquita… bottom left photo is the perfect example of their relationship: Dora wants to play with Chiquita. Chiquita runs far away from Dora. And repeat}.

It was worth a barbecue and multiple cakes and a surprise party at the bowling alley {because, who would have guessed it?!} with our dearest friends, our little community, the ones we do life with.

An entire weekend full of praising the One who gives good and perfect gifts. Grateful for the grace that fills our home each and every day. Thankful for an abundance of reasons for great joy.

Looking forward to what this next year will bring…