Happy Birthday to me! I was very blessed to not just celebrate but be celebrated on my birthday. In the past, with family spread out all over, our special occasion days faded into being just another day that was merely acknowledged. It didn't seem practical to invest in decorations, cakes, food, flowers or postage so we opted for a dinner out and usually it happened on a day that was convenient rather than the actual birthday or anniversary itself.
This year was so different. The Tia (Elena) planned a birthday party for me. She made her famous Mexican lasagna, which is my favorite, and all the other guests brought a side dish. They even decorated and had flowers to give the room the feel that a celebration was going on. I also realized how dreary our North American version of Happy Birthday is compared to the speedy, loud and energetic Mexican Birthday song. It is traditional here to taking a bite of the cake after you blow out the candle and of course you get your face smashed into it as well. This year my birthday was a night of fellowship, food, fun and celebration.
Then to top it off, the next morning I received a package all the way from Korea. It had all kinds of Korean candies for the kids but also tucked away were English books, magazines, some flavored coffee, special bookmarks and handmade silk bags for me. It is amazng how these things can make you feel so special.
It makes me reflect on how important these milestones with thought put into them are. God created us with such detail and He did it intentionally. He knew us before we were ever formed. How important is that? I think it is important enough for us all to embrace how special we really are especially in the sight of God.
My birthday was a blessed day this year and I am so thankful to be surrounded by such wonderful, loving and kind family and friends near and far.
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