To my sissy.

Today is not just another birthday.  I know its significance and have been in your shoes not that long ago.  It's a rare person that is ever "ready" for this day and after it has passed you'll wonder why it was such a big deal.  Maybe not right away, but I promise you one day you'll know that this birthday was indeed just another day to celebrate a full year of all of the good things that make up your life.

On my 30th birthday, I went out with Kelly and Chris and drank my weight in sangria.  I was celebrating on the outside but so sad on the inside.  I think you probably understand how that feels.

But what I wish I knew on that day was that I was right where I was supposed to be.  It wasn't where I envisioned I'd be but it didn't matter.  I hadn't accomplished ANYTHING I thought I would have accomplished by 30.  But only time proved that I hadn't failed and that the best things in my life were yet to be.

So - on this day - remember that 30 is just a number.  It means you've made it through some of the hardest days of your life already.  You've gained wisdom and knowledge that you never realized you needed.  You've been through some pretty big storms and I'm sure there will be more (come on, you're only 30!).  But you have two beautiful girls and a family that loves you infinitely - and a sissy that will always be there for you no matter what.

Today is a day to celebrate!  Don't be sad....(ok, you can be sad but only for a minute)...and I'll be the first to say:  Welcome to the Club!

I love you and wish I could be there to give you a big hug today.

Happy birthday,
Love,
Shelb