Monday, September 23, 2013

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! *

15 comments:

A Cuban In London said...

May I wish a happy birthday! And here's to another 43, and then another 43 and then another 43... ad infinitum! :-)

Greetings from London.

HKatz said...

Happy Birthday! I hope this coming year brings you joy, new wonderful adventures, and a full mind and heart with whatever you do :)

Unknown said...

Happy birthday! May you find yourself as richly blessed as this one!

Debby said...

Happy Birthday.....you were blessed this year.

S. Etole said...

May your coming year be equally blessed. Happy Birthday.

Suz said...

Happy Birthday Relyn!
my you have an exceptional list of thankfuls!

GraceGal said...

Happy Birthday to one blessed lady!

Jeanne said...

Beautiful indeed and many more wonderful blessings for the years to come. Love you
Jeanne

amelia said...

Happiest of birthday wishes to you, Relyn! May the celebration keep on, keepin' on . . .

Sandy K. said...

Happy, happy day, Relyn! You do, indeed, have a host of blessings upon your lift, and we all have much to be thankful for. What a great way to sum up the blessings, and renew the spirit. May the next 43 years be as blessed:).

Mac n' Janet said...

Happy Birthda!!!! I so enjoy your blog, if I were listing my blessings reading your blog, and the joy it brings, would be among them.

Marilyn Miller said...

Hope it was the best ever birthday!
Wonderful gratitude list.

Jennifer Richardson said...

I am so happy that you ARE, friend.
A brilliant piece of art
....some of His best workmanship.
Wishing you excessive joy:)
Just so much sweet peace to your beautiful, beautiful heart.
Big birthday love to you,
Relyn,
Jennifer

Jeanie said...

Your accounting is beautiful -- what blessings you have. Happiest year to you!

Tracy said...

Belated HAPPY BIRTHDAY greetings, Relyn... Beautiful taking stock here. My your year bring you even more beauty, love and delight. :o) ((HUGS))

Oldies, but Goodies