The Best Birthday Gift of All and How it Turned Out

   First of all, I want to be clear about one thing. I'm as greedy and self-centered and egotistical as the average person which means I'm no Angel. In fact, I can be a real stinker.

      So when my family asked what I wanted for my birthday, it was kind of a shock hearing these words come out my mouth, "I don't want a thing except for everyone I love to focus on having the most peaceful, loving and happy day they can. That is what I want." I nearly   looking around to see who this stranger was that had take over my body. Was it really me who'd said those words.

       Yes. And here's why:

1. My husband  has been super stressed out and sleep deprived. It hurts me to see him that way. It makes me feel good to know that getting something for my birthday is not something he had to add to his "to do" list. 

2. My middle son is in college, taking a heavy course load and equally stressed.

3. The youngest is having a rough transition to high school.

4. I didn't want a thing. Really, with the possible exception of the day to myelf, to read a good book or just relax. This gift I gave myself.  

 Now, my family did protest (which made me feel pretty good; they cared). But I stuck to my guns. I had a sense I'd get far more than I was giving and I was right. 

THE RESULTS:

1. Lots of hugs and kisses from  my  more  relaxed husbad and the joy of seeing him have more time to rest.

2. A warm and long phone call from my middle son.

3. A homemade card from the youngest and, perhaps, a lesson learned about what is truly important in life.  

4. Our finances didn't take a hit for things I didn't need.

5. No cake or ice cream to ruin my diet.  

I'd say that was a pretty good birthday present all around!