It’s been nearly two weeks since I officially reached the “latter part of the mid-30s” (my age? go figure! 
) and I obviously won’t let this pass without taking stock of what has happened in my life during the past year. I am definitely one with those who think that birthdays are meant to be “reflective” in nature – a time to pause and be thankful to the Lord for the many blessings and “learnings” He has allowed me to experience thus far.
So please indulge me in my “reflective pause” as I remember and be grateful for the year that was…
I am thankful for good health – for the gall stone that miraculously disappeared and for favorable medical results from my colonoscopy, ultrasound, laboratory and x-rays (name it, I had it!) 
I am thankful for my “health scares” for through them, I have learned to value and adhere to (most of the time, at least) a balanced diet/proper nutrition and regular exercise (gimme some credit here – I did lose some pounds – hahaha!). 
I am thankful for my family – to Keith, for standing by me through both the “dolce” (sweet) and the “loca” (crazy) of our life together and for usually being the better parent to our three beautiful children. And to our three gremlins, though many times you manage to drive me up the wall, I will always consider myself blessed for having all of you and for having the opportunity to be a full-time, hands-on mom.
To our family and friends in Manila and in other parts of the world, thank you too for keeping in touch and for showing us your love and concern even when we are a long plane ride away.
I am thankful for being able to see many interesting places as a family – most especially for the “surprise trip” we had during the latter part of the year. 
I am thankful for the internet for through it, my life has been enriched by many fascinating and wonderful people, some of whom I am even lucky enough to call friends.
Lastly, I am thankful to the Lord for continually being true to His promise of sustaining us here in the desert. It’s been almost three years now since we made the “leap of faith” (as hubby is wont to call it) and, inspite of the minor difficulties we have had (largely due to the great differences in culture), it seems ironic that our family was even strengthened and united by this move.
Indeed, as I look back to the year that passed, though there may have been curve balls thrown at me along the way, I still would not have it any other way. I am still in a good place and I am truly happy to still be in the ball game that is life.
Life is good and I am thankful.
PS Allow me to share with you some of my birthday highlights via the slideshow below. Just mouse over the pictures to see the corresponding captions. Enjoy!
He Said...She Said...