Nice Surprises

A dear friend of mine once said, "Every once in a blue moon God gifts us with someone new in our lives who inspire and challenge us." (I would mention her name, but she knows who she is and I definitely feel the same way about her!) I think this is such a beautiful thing, and am so thankful that I have been blessed more than once by God with this amazing gift.

This week was my birthday. Last year, my birthday was not a good day. My husband completely forgot about it and so did both of my kids. (Let me remind you, kids were 6 and 13, and of course my husband doesn't remember most things with his TBI and PTSD!) And, of course, I was too stubborn to say anything to them to remind them. Instead, I chose to take it personally, and wallow in my hurt! So, as the day started getting closer this year, I decided I was going to choose to make it different. It didn't need to be a big day, but I at least wanted my immediate family to let me know they remembered and that they loved me!

I started reminding them late last week and it worked!! My parents and my sister always remember and make me feel special! However, both of my boys went and got me gifts, very nice gifts I might add and even remembered on the actual day to tell me! Allen remembered too by calling me first thing in the morning which is huge for him. (Of course, someone from my family might have reminded him without me knowing, but that's ok too!)

Another, completely unexpected surprise was from my good friend Renee', a fellow wounded warrior spouse. She sent me flowers that are beautiful. Every time I look at them I think about how blessed I am to have the amazing friends that I have. Most of my closest friends are people I have met since Allen was injured. Most of the friends I had before have fallen out of touch so my new friends are precious to me. They have been through similar situations as I have and completely "get it". These friendships are priceless.

It is so easy to get caught up in daily life and forget about the blessings we receive everyday. I just wanted to take this time to thank those of you in my life that are there for me. You love me without judgement and through thick and thin. I should tell you all more often how much you mean to me, but I don't. Life just happens and time gets away. So, I'm taking the time now to tell you all I love you and wouldn't be in the place I am in my life without your love and support.