Friday the 13th: Lucky Me!

In elementary school I remember a general feeling of fear
and foreboding about Friday the 13th.
We all knew it was an unlucky day and we watch carefully for all the bad things that happened to us on this day. Proof that it was unlucky.
Then one year my birthday fell on Friday the 13th.
I was crestfallen. My best day of the year on the unluckiest day.
What to do? Somewhere along the way I decided that for me Friday the 13th is my lucky day.
I got presents and cake and people said nice things to me.
Even if it's not in November I try to make sure Friday the 13th is an extra good day.
(When I notice it.)

So let me tell you why I am feeling particularly blessed today.

My family.

46 years ago today my parents welcomed their third child.
They had a three year old and a 16 month old and now a newborn.
They had their hands full.
But I always knew I was loved.
Three more children followed and I always felt loved...
enough love that I prayed for more babies to come to our family
until my mom asked me to stop.
A special thanks to my parents - especially my mom
for not only giving me life but also love
and teaching me about the love of my Heavenly Father.
Is their a greater gift than that?

My family.
The people in this photo amaze me.
I am amazed that I know them and are a part of their lives.
I married an incredible man who is my best friend
I look at each of my children.
Each one is different. Each one has unique talents and gifts.
They are incredible individuals and I often sit back in amazement
as I watch them soar.
I have been further blessed as our family has grown.
Aaron and Amy have both chosen incredible spouses who are wonderful loving parents to our granddaughters - another priceless blessing.

I am surrounded by wonderful friends
and incredible people and opportunities.

I am lucky
but more than that I have been very blessed.