Special Days

We are sometimes challenged to share where we were when something significant happened. For many years I would hear people say, "I never will forget where I was when JFK was shot." I was only 3 years old when that happened so I don't remember where I was. Then, the tragedy happened on September 11, 2001. I will never forget where I was and the feelings I experienced as this tragedy unfolded.

For some reason it seems like most of these memories are tied to negative or tragic events. Today I am delighted to share another pivotal moment that happened in our lives (i.e. Lisa and I) and I remember exactly where I was. Today is our daughter Ashley's 18th birthday! This life-changing event for us is one of those "I will never forget where I was" times. I can still hear the doctor say "It's a girl" when we felt positive that we would have another boy. (Yes, we actually waited until she was born to know her gender). I immediately started thinking what it would be like to have a daughter. I thought, "I've got to get a gun because boys will want to come over and see her!" (This wasn't my first thought but I was repulsed at the thought of some boy getting a piece of my daughter's heart).

Many things have happened through these 18 years that have shaped who we all are. Ashley is a wonderful young lady, full of life and still bringing so much joy to her Mom and I. We just hope this is a wonderful day for Ashley. We miss her very much now that she is in college but are so proud of the young woman she is becoming.

This special day is a reminder for me how quickly time passes by and how easy it is to miss out on the best times of our lives because we are preoccupied with things that will never be talked about when we die. Faith, family, friends, etc. are the ingredients of LIFE! While there are many mistakes I regret in these last 18 years of parenting I can honestly say that we have loved Ashley with all our hearts and have tried to spend quality time with her through the years. One of the greatest commentaries on parenting is when your adult children want to come home and be around you. I hope our friendship with our adult children will grow stronger through the years.

Happy Birthday "Baby Girl!"