trying to end on a good note...

I just erased the post I was going to put up.  It wasn't a happy post, but it was what I thought I needed to get out.  Well, after I wrote it down, I deleted it, determined not to put any negativity out into the world tonight.  Instead I'm going to focus on 3 very special people today.  Today, 3 people dear to me have their birthdays. 
The first, my Aunt Jean.  This is the woman who babysat me when I was little, who would only give me 1/2 a glass of milk when I was a kid (but believe me I now know why...kids spill EVERYTHING!) and who I've shared a few beers, laughter and some tears with over the years.  She is a good egg and I'm so glad she is a part of my family.  I know she'd always have my back and really what more could you want in a family member? 
The second, my dear friend Dawn.  Dawn and I met at Knox and I adore everything about her.  She is sweet, kind, funny, and the perfect balance of being a grown-up and yet having the heart of a child.  She always seems to know exactly what I need to hear when I need to hear it and I know that I am a better person for knowing her.  She makes me want to be a better person, wife, mom and friend.  I am truly blessed to have a friend like her.
And last (but certainly not least)...Ian.  Ian is my cousin's little boy who only spent a short time on this earth.  He is the angel watching over our whole family and he has the best mommy, daddy and sister anyone could ask for.  I'm sure he is celebrating his birthday in heaven eating some M&Ms and Skittles with Papa Joe. 

Thanks you three for reminding me of just a few of the blessing I have in my life.  Love to you all!