Birthday Parties

There are all kinds of birthday parties.  Parties that have themes, parties that have cake and ice cream, parties that create noise and excitement and parties that just come together on the spur of the moment.

The only birthday party I remember from my childhood is a PINK one-- everything was pink--pink cake, pink balloons and pink lemonade.  I don't know what happened after that, I don't know if we couldn't afford them, if life was just too crazy for my parents or what but that is the only party I remember and I was probably 5 years old.
So-- I love parties!  I love planning them, I love themes, I love making decorations and all the food.  I also enjoy the party that brings the people I love together-- all in one place, having fun, and enjoying each other's company.
I started thinking about why I get so excited and what drives me to want it all to be just right.  By the way, if you know me, it isn't perfect-- something is always askew or missing!  But I think it all boils down to how a party makes me feel.  The feeling of love and acceptance, the joy of giving a gift that makes receiver smile and the joy of receiving a gift that you know someone put some thought into.   Now, in this time of my life, I know it's about making the memory.  That someday, a loved one will look back and remember they felt special and loved.  Loved by the most important people in their lives.  It's not about the theme or the decorations or even the presents, it's about knowing you are loved.
Today we will celebrate Hudson's second birthday and tomorrow Wyatt's seventh.  And you know what, I can't wait!