The Groundhog saw his shadow this morning (at least in Utah, I hear Punxsutawney Phil did NOT!). Six more weeks of Winter (at the very least). Sorry about that.
I’ve always had a ridiculous sort of pride in my birthdate–02/02, Groundhog’s Day. Such a clean, simple date and easily remembered by the annual rodent weather predictor. Well, easy for me to remember, at least.
But people remember. Thanks to the age of the Internet where Facebook announces our birthdates and a kind word is only a text or email away, sweet messages trickled in all day long. And for a girl like me who thrives on appreciation and praise, it’s the perfect sort of day.
Last fall I wrote about getting older, getting better, and you know what? I AM. I feel happier, healthier, more myself than ever (some of this is due to an excellent doctor). I know what I believe, I know my priorities and my passions and I’m secure about my own set of faults and strengths. More than ever, I feel free to let my wildly creative mind just GO!
The setting sun tonight found me balancing on a ladder in my front yard filming Mary twirling in the snow, sparkling confetti flying and a giant heart outlined in pink and red lights. And I’m not embarrassed; I don’t care who stares as they drive by.
My friend Shelah recently quoted Peggy O’Mara, “Be careful how you speak to your children. One day it will become their inner voice.” And I realized, the voice in my head has changed. My wonderful but overburdened mother was extremely critical of me. I think, the popular wisdom of the time was to correct, correct, correct. Before her death my mother apologized and I have more than forgiven her. I still hear her voice in my head, but it’s different now– full of love and delight and encouragement. She doesn’t think I need to lose ten pounds or keep the pantry perfectly clean, she simply wants me to nurture and enjoy my children, to recognize the beauty all around me. And I do.
Jessica
Love this post, dear friend. You are such a great example to me of being such a wonderful mother. Hope you had a great birthday! xox
Jenny Hatch
It still cracks me up how much we have in common. I just turned 45 on groundhogs day.
I know we have never met, but this wild blog is my favorite and I feel a sisterhood, a sort of “in the mommy trenches” with you that keeps me reading.
Thanks!
Cath
Happy Birthday dear friend. Your talk of spring coming has stayed with me. And this contentment you’ve found the past year has been beautiful to watch. I love you. And all that you believe in.
And I think this is my favorite photo of you yet. xo
Linn
Happy Birthday Michelle! Love you friend. I’m so grateful for your good heart.
Raluca
Happy birthday, dear Michelle! You are a daily inspiration for me! Thank you for this blog!!
ellen
Enjoy your birthday! (I love when the wishes last more than one day!)
Grandma Honey
I enjoyed going back and reading about your Mom’s apology. Very interesting reading how life was back then. I think it all says lots about you….the way you can put that all in a different perspective now…and even have empathy for your Mom.
Lisa
Love this! And I especially loved seeing the shot of you behind the camera! I do hope your day was great! Lunch soon?
Kit Linkous
I’ve loved watching your journey this year, like Catherine, and am so happy for you. I can’t wait for all the joy that this next year will hold 😉 Thanks for being you and inspiring me. Happy birthday!
Kerri
I really love that picture. And I love that you sound happy in your skin. That is a gift worth celebrating.
Tracy
That is an amazing picture. You are so beautiful. I’m so lucky to call you my friend.
I love you.
I hope your birthday was amazing.
xoxoxoxo
(sorry for my late comment – I was a little distracted these last few days…)
lisastassforth
Well Happy birthday….But more winter? The news reports said that he didn’t see his shadow so we will have an early spring.
Just found your blog and love the way you write. Your parenting style has created some really nice kids. Congratulations!
lawdy
I love your blog. Love your family. Love your beautiful pictures. Happy, happy Birthday! I think we all get better with age-prettier, smarter, more authentic! (from your neighbor’s sister)
Anne Marie
Happy birthday! So, so glad that there has been more happiness in your life. I will never forget the words you’ve written about your mom. Thank you. Your perspective has helped with my own healing process.
Mormon Women: Who We Are
Happy belated birthday. Can I say it enough? I continue to be fed by your words and your spirit. Thank you.
Pinned this one. 🙂
Mormon Women: Who We Are
Happy belated birthday. Can I say it enough? I continue to be fed by your words and your spirit. Thank you.