42 isn't so bad!

Do you remember the magic of childhood and the wonderful feelings invoked by a holiday or a birthday? The best part was that your excitement was always justified as your loved ones showered you with love and presents which made you feel (if only for a day) that you were the center of the universe. Then we grow up and the magic seems to fade with the passing years as it is replaced with responsibilities. Then as you become parents you realize there’s something even better and that is the joy you feel as you watch your children experience that same magic knowing you have created it for them. Well, as I was lamenting the coming of our birthdays and courting the woes of aging, our children taught me a great lesson. There is actually something even better still! That is being old enough to come full circle and enjoy again the magic you felt as a child, but this time it is your own children who have created it for you.

We began our birthday by spending an evening together - ALONE.  We ordered room service and watched movies and enjoyed doing absolutely nothing with no one needing us. 

When we came home the morning of our birthday what awaited us was magical.  The kids worked together to clean the house and create a wonderful party filled with the most thoughtful presents.  Experiencing their excitement for us was the best present I’ve ever gotten. 

And the cake!  Maddy knew German Cocolate was our favorite (well - my favorite) and she was so thoughtful to put so much into making a homemade cake for us.  It was not only beautiful, but wonderful too!
 

We are truly the luckiest parents in the whole world and I have learned that 42 isn't so bad!