There was a time when celebrating my birthday felt bittersweet. When I first found out I was gene positive, I struggled with the idea of getting older because it felt like each year was just a step closer to the unknown. But then God showed me how precious each day truly is. I realized that I was not symptomatic yet, and so many others were facing greater challenges than me. That was my wake-up call. I needed to start truly living, cherishing every moment, and making the most of the time I have been given. Looking back now, I see all the beautiful memories I have made, and I am so thankful for each one.
This year, I had a truly wonderful birthday. My husband surprised me with a cold plunge and sauna for our home, knowing how much I have benefited from them at the yoga studio. He set everything up so we could use it right away in the morning. We enjoyed a peaceful breakfast together, and later that evening, we went to dinner with his mom and stepdad at Zócalo’s.
One of the sweetest surprises was the Andes Mint Chocolate Cupcake he got me from Pushkin’s Bakery. There is a funny story behind it. Years ago, I was part of an HD trial, and on my birthday, I was home resting. My husband went to Raley’s and found an Andes Mint Cupcake, which ended up being one of the best things I had ever tasted. I had been dreaming about it ever since. Since I now follow a strict gluten and dairy-free diet, I was not sure if I would get to enjoy something similar again. But when I found out that Pushkin’s had a seasonal version, I sent him on a mission to get me one. Not only was it just as delicious as I remembered, but they even gave it to me for free. It was such a small but thoughtful gesture that made my day even more special.
I also got to spend time with my family and friends, which meant the world to me. I went to one of my favorite breakfast spots, Sibling, and had some incredible chicken and waffles. I ate every bite! I enjoyed a great cup of coffee, was treated to a new book, and even went dancing with some friends. It was such a joyful celebration.
Last year, for my fortieth birthday, I went all out with a Breakfast at Tiffany’s themed brunch, planned by my amazing Aunt Lynda. She flew in from Florida to put it all together, and it was absolutely perfect. Fun fact, Lynda was my mom’s best friend since kindergarten. They grew up on the same street, and she has always been such an important woman in my life. My Aunt Nancy also came down from Oregon with her daughters, Chris and Carolyn, to help with the party.
After the celebration, I decided to pull a little prank just like I did when I was younger. When they were driving back to Oregon in their trailer, I snuck in and surprised them on the road. It was such a fun moment. That trip ended up being so special. I got spoiled with a visit to The Pix, my favorite movie theater, a trip to the ocean, and I even got to meet Caesar the No Drama Llama, which was an experience I will never forget!
March also brings another meaningful day, my mom’s birthday on the eighth. As I get closer to the age she was when she passed away, I cannot help but think about what her life might have been like if she had been able to take better care of her health. My mom struggled with addiction and went to rehab, and I believe that played a role in her passing so young. Her journey is a big reason why I try to be very mindful of what I put into my body. I am not perfect, and I have made my fair share of mistakes, but I do my best to learn from them and make positive changes.
I do not dwell on the past with sadness because I know my mom was also battling HD. Instead, I choose to remember all the beautiful things about her, the love she gave, the laughter we shared, and the incredible memories that will always be a part of me. I miss her every single day, but I carry her with me always.
This birthday reminded me once again how blessed I am, to be alive, to be surrounded by love, and to have the chance to keep making incredible memories. Thank you to everyone who has shown me kindness, given me their time, and made me feel so loved. Every call, every visit, and every thoughtful gesture means the world to me.
No matter what life brings, I will continue to embrace it with joy, gratitude, and faith. Here is to another year of living life to the fullest! 💙
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