Happy Birthday KT, (alternately titled Mother's Day, Part 2)

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer 29:11

Thirty short years ago today, my baby girl was born. It was Mother's Day. There could not have been a more beautiful gift for the occasion, and there hasn't been one since. God just couldn't top that one.

She pretty much learned the lessons I tried to teach her, though many were tough sells and learned after she was all moved out. It was God's timing, and some stubbornness on her part.

Give. None of it is ours to keep anyway. It all belongs to Him.

Receive gracefully. People gift you kindnesses out of their hearts. Your appreciation is your gift back.

Forgive. The burden of harboring a grudge is much heavier than the gift of letting go.

Worship. We influenced her on that one, but she seems to have perfected it.

Cry during church. It's the right thing to do. Or at least we keep telling each other that, since it's out of our control.

Never settle. 'Nuf said. (And dorks really do make the best husbands).

Eat your vegetables. She's the dietitian - why do I need to keep telling her that?

Want what you have. It's always enough. And if God doesn't think so, He will provide.

Be a good steward. Time. Money. Talents. All are gifts we are charged with using to honor Him.

Learn to skate backwards. It allows you to see where you've been, but forces you to focus on where you're going and maintain balance. Don't forget the Zamboni in the corner, waiting to blindside you. (Thanks, Katdish).

Life sucks sometimes - get used to it. Our lives will be perfect one day, just not here. "It isn't the mountain ahead that wears you out - it's the grain of sand in your shoe."

Trust God's timing. He knows what's best. Thank Him for unanswered prayers.

Wear sunscreen. I didn't slather the kids in SPF-60 for 16 years for them to bolt for the tanning beds at prom time.

Don't say you're fat. We are all fearfully and wonderfully made.

Never, never, never give up. I cross-stitched a tennis towel that she carried all through high school. Those words were soaked with blood, sweat, and tears so many times.

Become your mother. That's not a lesson, but there's nothing either one of us could do about it, so we might as well embrace it.

Don't tell your dad everything. What he understands will be minimal; the remainder will go right over his head. Besides, he's a boy. We all know how they think...or don't. That being said, good luck in finding someone he thinks is good enough for you to marry.

Nothing will ever be as big as the love God has for you, KT. For as big as my love is, it couldn't possibly compare. I can tell you how to live, but I cannot give you eternal life.

Happy Birthday, Punkin. I hope you dance.


Tea tonight: Genmaicha