60 or 16 ?

Today is my birthday and I don't share my cake with just anyone. I'm off playing today with Mr. Wonderful (my favorite playmate). Today I turn 60 years old, and despite the silver hair, adorable grandchildren, children who have turned into responsible adults, and the cute guy I married.... not much has changed since I was 16. Now, if you'll kindly stop laughing (it's ok, I'll wait!) let me explain.

Thirty-six years ago, my world changed drastically when I said, "I do" to Charlie Bennetch (the cute guy). Since then, we have been on a grand adventure that is anything but predictable. Through it all I have been blessed with good health, lots of laughter, friends, a wonderful family, a godly husband (who constantly rescues me), and most of all a faithful God and Savior who promised never to leave me or forsake me when I dedicated my life to him at 16.

In my head, I'm still a sixteen-year-old girl, full of life and waiting for the next adventure. In my head, I still have endless possibilities and creative energy. In my head are novels I've yet to write, places I've yet to explore, and friends I'm anxious to meet for the first time.

However, in my heart, I have wonderful memories of adventures completed, friends and family who helped shape my character and conduct and most of all I have a lifetime of daily interactions with Jesus Christ. As I age, I get more and more dependent on His Grace and Mercy and look forward to Heaven. I'm comforted knowing His mercies are new every morning and I rely on his grace moment by moment.

If you think about me today, on my birthday, please breathe a prayer that I will always remember to be gracious. God has extended such grace to me that I should be the most gracious person ever. Thank you for your cards and letters and most of all your friendship. I treasure each of you and value your impact on my life.

Today I wear the birthday tiara with pride and plan to celebrate life with all my favorite things, chocolate brownies from Chick-fil-A, Lunch at Red Lobster, Shopping at Target (with a 100-dollar gift card...Woo Hoo!) and renew my driver's license complete with new picture and new weight!