What a difference a year makes

Yesterday was my 31^st birthday.  And I actually found turning 31 to be much easier than turning 30 was!  I remember spending my birthday last year discontent, sad that I was turning 30 having not really accomplished much of what I’d always thought I would by that milestone.  No babies, mainly.  But also no real career to speak of, thanks in part to so many moves.  We’d just uprooted from a duty station, friends, and church family we loved dearly.  But as much as it started out on a gloomy foot, this past year turned out to be one of the best ones yet.

And as I turned the page to 31 yesterday, I felt so incredibly, simply satisfied.  The past year has brought the biggest ups and downs I’ve ever felt, and left me feeling so grateful for this rollercoaster of a life.  This beautiful little one growing inside is the miracle we’ve waited for, prayed for.  She has blessed us beyond measure already.  These past 8 months have shown me a compassionate and brave side of my sweet husband that has drawn me even more deeply into our love.   I’ve felt the sincere love of so many poured out upon us during this chapter of our lives.  We bought our first house, the home that we will bring our first baby home to.  I have a soft, snuggly kitty warming my lap as I type, who keeps me loyal and constant company while Cameron is away.  There is so very much to be thankful for. 

I got an exciting gift this year for my birthday: I got to choose our precious baby girl’s birthday!  And it’s only 3 weeks and 5 days from today.  December 27^th, 2012, we will welcome our little cupcake into this big world.  And although it will be tough at times, I know life will be exponentially more beautiful this 32^nd year.