Day - 3

Today, the last day of my extended Christmas break, has found me thinking about how truly blessed I am to have such wonderful people in my life.  Not only do I have a wonderful husband, a faithful four-legged friend, an amazing sister and fantastic parents, but I also have a remarkable extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins and my adopted family - the friends I just can't live without.  It is my friends who have my thoughts today, because despite the fact that I live on the other side of the country from them, we maintain these wonderful connections and it doesn't take any time to catch back up after a break.  

 

Today, January 3, 2011, had me thinking about my beautiful goddaughter and her family (long story, but I've known them forever, or at least since I was 7).  You see, today is my goddaughter's 9th birthday.  I remember when she was born, I was so excited to be an "Auntie".  She's been a special part of my life for the past 9 years.  She has shared some of the biggest moments of my life with me.  She was there when I graduated high school, university, moved to Edmonton, moved to Whitehorse, got engaged and when I got married.  She had a special role in our wedding, she was my Junior Bridesmaid (too old to be the flower girl, but too young to be a bridesmaid).  I am so proud to be her "Auntie".  When we called her tonight, she was over the moon to tell us about her gifts and her special day.  It made me a little sad, feeling that I've missed out on so many of her big events.  When I spoke to her mom, she unknowingly made me feel better.  You see, I was the subject of her first school project this year.  She told her whole class about how she was such a part of my wedding, and it made me feel at ease - maybe I am there for her when I can be in my own little way.  

I also spent a large part of today thinking about another dear friend (we've been friends since 8th grade) and her small family.  Today her youngest daughter is celebrating her 9th week of life.  She has been through so much in these 9 weeks, more than most people go through in a lifetime.  It has been difficult watching my friend and her family go through these ordeals, especially from afar.  Today, the 9th week, marks a celebration in their lives.  This tiny baby has been removed from her ventilator and her parents are finally going to get the chance to hold their daughter (the first time in 8 weeks, since her heart surgery).  I am so proud of my friend for holding it together the way that she is.  I haven't had much of a chance to talk to her since the baby was born, but I have been keeping their whole family in my thoughts and prayers.  I can't wait to meet this little fighter, she is definitely a strong little girl.


That's it for today!  Happy Birthday J!  Keep fighting baby D!


- E