Well my birthday came and went a month ago but I didn't want to forget to thank my wonderful family and friends. This year marked my 40th birthday!!!!!!! I asked my family to allow me to turn 40 gracefully. PLEASE no black streamer or tombstones in the front yard. Just a quiet cake and ice cream kind of thing. Needless to say, them being who they are, small was not in their vocabulary. They gave me something I never had before. A fantastic surprise party to celebrate with me. There were no black streamers or tacky over the hill signs. They had bright colored happy decorations and gave me a day to hold dear instead of a day of dread. The funny thing is I can't remember a time that I felt more comfortable in my own skin or more confident in myself. I do have to say that when I look at my three teenagers I often wonder how we got here so fast. They are so independent and brilliantly alive. They are what keep me young.