Fifty Years!!!

50 years. That is a long time, don’t you agree? Think about your life 50 years ago (if you were born) or 50 years from now. Think of all the things you can do, see, learn, experience, taste, touch, feel, in 50 years. It is a massive amount of time – and as of March 11, 2010, it is how long my dear parents have been married!

That is certainly an accomplishment and something to be very very proud of. I don’t know if they even realize how much they have positively influenced their children’s lives, just by staying married – and HAPPILY I might add.

My life growing up was always full of balance, and security and laughter and wonder and feeling loved and safe. I was happy and fulfilled and grateful. And today – I am still all of those things. Knowing my mom and dad were there for me every step of the way really helped to mold and shape me (and I think I turned out pretty darn good). Granted, parents can be there for their children even if they are separated or divorced - but for me, I feel very blessed to have the strength and bond of a strong family unit throughout not only my childhood, but my adult life as well.

Watching my parents is amazing. They are truly best friends. Sure – they have their moments when they might yell at each other, or get frustrated and say things that maybe aren’t the nicest in the moment – hello!! after 54 years of each other there is bound to be some annoyances! BUT – it’s always a happy ending and they are always in love. They travel and ski and kayak and hike and bike and laugh with each other all the time. They kiss and hug and they do the meanest Jive and Jitterbug I’ve ever seen a couple do!

I had them both walk me down the aisle because they are “one”. They are my parents and I love them to the ends of the earth. So, here’s to you mom and dad. You are the most amazing people I’ve ever known and I look up to you each and every day. Happy 50th Wedding Anniversary and may all the rest of your days together be as happy as the ones leading you here. I love you.

Feel the Love!

This past Friday was my birthday! When I woke up that morning – I knew it was a special day – but it didn’t feel overly different from any other day. That quickly changed. Before I was even out of bed, my lovely husband leaned over, kissed my forehead and wished me a happy birthday. He told me I was the best wife ever and how much he loved me and how beautiful I was! Wow – that’s a pretty nice way to wake up!

Within 20 minutes of getting out of bed, I had a text message from my brother Cory wishing me the best day and telling me I’m the best sister in the world and how much he loves me! Again – pretty sweet.

As the day progressed and I got on the train for my commute to work…texts on my cell were filtering in. More birthday wishes from friends – even ones I have not talked to in a long time – wishing me a happy day and letting me know they care. It just felt so nice!

Once at work – I don’t think 10 minutes passed before my phone was ringing – my in-laws from Calgary SINGING me “Happy Birthday!” It was so endearing. In came by boss, walking down the hall – big gift bag in hand – “Happy Birthday Lisa” she said, with a big smile on her face!

I know I’m not 12, but this was a super fun exciting day and it wasn’t even 10:00 am yet! I even heard from my friend Pam, who I haven’t spoken to since my wedding (not for lack of trying!) – she called me at work that morning to wish me a great day! Later on, when logging onto facebook, I was overwhelmed with over 30 messages to me all wishing me a happy day and letting me know how much I am loved.

That evening we went to dinner with my brothers and sisters-in law, and my two nieces, to a really fun authentic Mexican restaurant. Even there it was a blast because the waitresses came in singing to me, clapping, and gave me a huge sombrero to wear and brought this Massive dessert for the whole table to share! At home later that night, I got to speak to my parents (they are in Florida) and it was the perfect way to end a perfect day.

I know birthdays come and go, but this one just felt extra special for some reason. Friends and family really reached out to let me know how much they love me and there’s no better feeling than that in the world. Thanks everyone. You really made my day a beautiful one!

I'm still around....but

I'm having a hard time keeping up this blog lately….think I will take a hiatus for awhile. Beginning a new chapter in my life today. Will post back in a few months (if not earlier) to keep you updated. That’s all I’ll say for now. (and no, I’m not preggers – sorry ma!)