Thoughts from a 40-Year Old Pilgrim

Yes, it's true. The big birthday has come and gone. I still don't feel old enough to be 40. How is that possible??? But, it is true. I even have the gray hair to prove it!

Our trip to see my family turned out really wonderful. The weather was rainy the first day, but sunny and crisp for the second day of travel. My sister Marsha, who lives in Colorado, was able to come to Kansas for the week as well. She and her husband braved some treacherous weather to make the trip!

While in Kansas, I was able to spend time visiting with my parents. On the 8th, my parents watched our kids while we joined my sisters and their spouses, as well as a couple of nieces and a nephew, at my oldest sister's home to watch Ohio State in their "big" championship game. The game was a big disappointment, but we had a great time together.

The next night, we took in a high school basketball game that was quite interesting. The other team's crowd and coaches were the type that think a high school game is going to tip the balance of the universe. They yelled at the referees. They stomped. They threatened (after the game). A couple of their players got thrown out for throwing punches. Yikes. Definitely not your typical small-town game. At least not how I remember them. Of course, I'm 40 now, so I suppose my memory is a little in question. Ha!

For my birthday, my sisters and their spouses all gathered, as well as the nieces and nephew who could be there. They surprised me, and showered me with a good time, gifts, cards from friends, and some quite yummy cake!

Our trip home was a bit difficult, due to the big ice storm. We stayed at a hotel in the St. Louis area, which was filled with people from the area whose homes had no power/heat. We were thankful for the Lord's protection, as we really had no big problems. We continue to pray for those who are suffering from the storm's effects.

Thanks again to everyone (especially my wonderful, wonderful husband!) who made my birthday so special. I am a very blessed woman to have such a great husband, kids, sisters, nieces, nephews, parents, friends, relatives, and in-laws.
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And so here I am...all 40 and everything. I suppose I should have some great words of wisdom to pass along to those who aren't as far along on the pathway of life. To be honest, though, I don't feel that wise!

A few things I have learned, though:

--Cherish your family and friends. They are the ones who stick with you through the tough times as well as rejoicing with you in your good times.

--If you are married, shower your husband with the love he deserves. You have a long road to travel together. If you're not married yet, pray for God to send you a man (or woman!) who will love you and walk the road, no matter how bumpy it gets.

--Let your kids be kids. Don't rush them into being grown up too soon. The rest of the world is doing enough of that already.

--Give God every day of your life. I mean, each day, offer yourself and that day to Him anew, and ask Him to help you make the most of that day, moment by moment.

Well, I guess that's not too much wisdom. So, I'd like to ask my readers to pass along some of your own words of wisdom. Some of you are older than me; others, younger. But we all have something to share. I look forward to hearing from you!