a different sort of accounting

It's my 43rd birthday today.  I don't have a wish list at all.  I've already been given so much.

just some of the blessings of the past year
* Jeffrey * Sloane * my parents, and the happy childhood they provided * my brother, and the additional family he gave me to love * my in-laws, who raised my most excellent husband * the unshakable, unchangeable fact that God is the provider of all my needs * that my niece is also my namesake * the way that God uses the most difficult times to teach me and help me grow * weekend road trips with my parents * that we live only four hours (or less) from 4 incredible art museums * the way we can ask to become more like Jesus, and He answers with a resounding, "Yes!" * the way this Earth is so filled with beauty.  Truly, "the Earth declares the glory of the Lord." * friendships that have lasted through recent moves and separations * forgiveness and renewal of a treasured friendship * a new sewing machine * Jeffrey's steady love, no matter the trial; like a sure hand at my back as I climb rickety stairs. * Sloane's enthusiasm and willingness to share her thoughts and life with me in such an open-hearted way. * my mother is cancer free - praise God! * all the happy changes we made to our home * my camera and the people who let me take their pictures * time at the ocean, baring my heart and finding love and acceptance in return * the chance to meet new blogging friends *my brother-in-law's 19th surgery went so very well and we all had a terrific time together this summer * my in-laws are getting a new house * the chance to spend time this summer with old friends * our small group and the surety that those friends pray for me and mine every single day *  a magical road trip * getting back in touch with my high school besties * Life!  Oh, I am thankful for this wonderful, beautiful, messy, busy, crazy, marvelous life! *