This past Friday I took the plunge into the "30 somethings" as I celebrated my birthday. I can say for sure that if the next ten years are as good as they started then I am eternally grateful to my Heavenly Father. I spent Thursday night basking in the richness of friends and a wonderful husband's hard efforts to make my day unforgettable, and he succeeded. He had planned the sitter, told me when to be ready, and contacted my closest friends in the area to surprise me at a quaint little restuarant called "Through the Grapevine." All the details were covered; fresh fruit, fresh veggies, shrimp, chicken salad croissant sandwiches, and desserts with coffee or fruit tea. An absolute blissful time of girl fellowship; a rare moment in a house of boys. Sweet conversation, laughter, memories. Unforgettable!
The next morning as I spent time with my Creator I was feeling a subtle sadness with this date, because I wasn't going to get a birthday call from my dad that passed away 3 years ago this May. I could just hear his voice, "I love you, girl! Happy Birthday and how are the boys?" My prayer was that I would feel his presence in my day and somehow I would be reminded of his love. Well, God is more than good and knows our every little need. Later that morning, my mom called to send birthday wishes and love. And not a moment after those words, she said, "Laurie, I can remember it was like yesterday when you were born. Your dad was so excited. I remember him calling everyone saying, "We have a Laurie Elizabeth! He was thrilled to have a little girl." As mom continued to talk, I just was amazed at how quickly my Creator heard and answered my heart. I was full.
My heart has been so full as I continued to receive cards, emails, and phone calls from all the ones I hold dear to my heart. Many thanks to all of ya'lls tenderness, love and encouragement. I know I don't say it enough, but I treasure you all!!
