Blessings...

I am SO BLESSED!! I am out at a conference for Literacy Coaches until tomorrow, so I haven't really been reading and commenting too much.

As I told you in my last post, one son turned 13. Also in the past week, one son has decided to enlist in the National Guard (yes, we've had all the conversations you might be thinking about). And while we are (OK I am) a bit worried about his decision, we are so proud of him as he takes this next step in his life's journey. The other three will start school next week...one an 8th grader, one a Senior, and one a 3rd grader.

As DS 4 noted on our way into church on Sunday, "Mom your two boys are sure growing up fast." I noted that I have FOUR boys. He agreed, but reminded me that the first two are much closer to the edge of our nest than he and DS 3 are. He's right.

Add to that mix, one EMOTIONAL mid-40's Mother and you can imagine the roller coaster of thoughts and feelings making their way through my heart and head right now.

Today I realized, once again, just how blessed I am in SO MANY ways.

It is my birthday. My bosses (who are here with me) and friend, D knew it and told me this morning that since I can't be with my family, we are going to dinner at one of my favorite restaurants in all of Florida. I am blessed that it's not just work for me, it is so much more.

I received two VERY special eCards today. The first was a total surprise. My blogging friend, Danielle sent me a card that made me laugh out loud here in my hotel room. I needed it at the precise moment that I clicked on it. Then, my brother Greg and his wife Christie sent me a beautiful card with the PERFECT sentiment inside.

Shortly after I dried my eyes from reading Greg's card, my son Matt called to say, "I wanted to wish my Mama a Happy Birthday!" I am well aware that there are many 17 (almost 18) year olds out there who just wouldn't remember--or care as much as he does. He is taking my 13 yo son to his first concert up in Tampa tonight.

In the meantime, in conversation with my DH, he is helping DS 1 prepare for his military paperwork. I am so thankful that my DH is level-headed and can be the "thinker" as DS takes this important step...because, I am operating pretty strictly on emotion right now in this arena.

And, it's as I consider these, all the blessings in my life that I realize just HOW much God loves me. And I am so so thankful! I only hope that I can "pay it forward" because that's really what it's all about.