Today...

Today is my birthday. I am 33 years old today. I was awoken this morning by a sweet sweet surprise. Josh and my three boys came into the room and each was holding a card. (even Liam at 12 weeks had a little card in his hand) As I read each card I was overcome. Josh said Britton and Aidan had chosen their own cards. That they picked the one they liked and then Josh read it to 'em and they decided if they liked it or not. I was amazed because each card fit each personality so well.

Brit~my serious son, the one who takes things so personally, sometimes is all business, sometimes sweeter than sugar and sometimes as goofy as it gets...here is the card he chose for me:

For a very special mother, you are a wonderful creation. You were designed in the heart of God, fashioned by His loving hands, and given to our family as His precious gift. Thank you for all you do, your prayers, your words, your example and every moment you've selflessly given to our family. You are appreciated, celebrated and loved.

Aidan~my silly middle child...he is snuggly..loves to cuddle...and often tells me how beautiful he thinks I am, nothing formal about him...here is the card he chose for me:

Mom, if I could give you anything for your birthday, it would be all the happiness you've given me just by being my mom. Love you, happy birthday.

I know they are just children and they will change so much...but I am so blown away by how EACH child represents a piece to a puzzle...a piece that God has given me one by one...it started with Josh..my rock, my safe place on this earth and then it was Britton...the piece who let me see what unconditional love TRULY looked like...who introduced me to a part of me I NEVER knew existed. He made me a momma. Then there was Aidan, the snuggly piece. The child who loves to snuggle with me and on a regular basis, the piece who makes me feel beautiful..tells me on a regular basis that I look like a princess...Now, there is Liam..the child who has reminded me to slow down...to enjoy the baby...that life is about experiences and relationships NOT material possessions.

Each child..so different...and yet, now, this morning..on the day of my 33rd birthday it is so clear to me...God has placed all 4 of these people into my life to bring about a sort of healing. You see, there was a wound placed in my heart years ago. One that I have tried and tried to overcome...and one that has tarnished every relationship I have tried to have...however, it hasn't been until NOW, this MOMENT that I realize just how precious and meticulous God has been at helping me heal. My three sons and my husband, all represent a part of the puzzle that God has designed to heal me...to make me whole...to help me see how much HE Loves me...how precious I am to HIM...oh God, I am overcome...Thank you..thank you...thank you...

Praise you Lord...

On this my 33rd birthday...the first birthday that I haven't felt like my birth was a mistake..the first time I realize my purpose in this world...the first time I have had TRUE unhibited happiness...yes, what a day...my 33rd birthday...the day I REALIZED that God has TRULY made me a NEW creation...November 16, 2010...my BIRTHday.