I've gone entirely too long between updates, and I apologize, but as I said in the last post, I am working from sun up to sun down. . .
Today is my 45th birthday. I am so incredibly blessed by the family surrounding me and the love of those who are further away. . .I am grateful beyond the telling for my life.
But never a day passes that I don't miss those who aren't with me. Some of you celebrated with us five years ago, when I turned forty. Mommy was still in the hospital, and she was bitterly disappointed to miss the big night that she and Robyn had planned so carefully. I think back to that night. . and to the five years that have passed. . .and I find it bittersweet.
There is no doubt in my mind that Mommy and Daddy are together again, in a far better place than this world of ours. I don't mourn for them at all, But I miss them, every day.
Today, on my birthday, my book Fearless hit number one on Amazon's Contemporary Fantasy chart. It's number 62 overall (at last count). My second book is moving along as well. Not being able to share that news with my parents is hard.
But how wonderfully blessed I am that there are people in my life with whom I can share that news. For each of you who have been intentional about keeping in touch--whether it is via phone calls, email, cards, letters, visits when I'm in New Jersey--I am grateful. For those of you who call me just to 'check in' and make sure we're hanging in there--thank you. I don't take that for granted and I never will.
I was gifted with two of the best parents in the world for 39 and 40 years. Whether I live another eighteen years or another forty, I hope I can honor the legacy they gave me and make them proud.
As I write this, my five children (including newest son Greg) are in the kitchen preparing my birthday dinner. Clint and I are sitting on the lanai enjoying the breeze. We spent the day at the beach.
All in all, life is good.
