A Year Further Down the Road...

Today was my birthday...and even though I had every reason to be lonely and cynical, I found myself  surrounded by love and support from all those who have come to mean so much to me in the past year.

In the last year, I have learned that no matter how horrible and beat-down I feel, that I am strong, that I really am a fighter, and that I can survive.  Part of that strength, survival and fighting, though, is realizing that it is okay to ask for help and to accept help when it is offered.  Martyrs don't get medals.....and in asking and receiving help and support from others, the greatest thing you get overall is the knowledge that you ARE loved, you ARE supported, no matter how much you may not feel like that.

Tonight was a day of ups and downs.....thank you to everyone who called and messaged.  It meant the world to me.

It started out with this:

sheesh.....a decade.  time does fly.  especially when you are surrounded by amazing friends and family who love you.  

Went into the homestretch with a phone call from my beloved Shaner that ended with this:

"Well sweetie, there is the sixty second warning.  Have a great birthday.  I love you.  The next time you hear my voice it will be on the pier."  

Swoon.  My life is complete.

Winded down with drinks with an amazing friend while we skipped the gym.

And ended with girl talk and birthday hugs from a dear friend who showed up with wine and cupcakes.  

I am loved.  
And that is the best lesson I learned in the past year.

I want to add that my birthday was really a four day extravaganza, where I spent an evening with my ZBs and had lunch with one of my closest and bestest friends.  The best, best birthday in a long long time.

Thank you everyone, for making me feel the way I do as I go to bed tonight.  <3 nbsp="" p="">