47

According to my driver's license and birth certificate (and mom), today I turn 47. Funny, I don't feel like I'm in my 40s. Some say I don't look like I'm in my 40s either (thank you!). Once we turn 18, and then 21...birthdays don't seem to hold their importance. Maybe 50 will be different, we'll see. As I sit and reflect on my life so far, I've come to realize how things balance themselves out over a lifetime. I had a happy childhood. We never went without anything we needed or most of our wants. We lived a simple, humble life. My mom was a stay home mom for the most part. She blessed me with my youthful looks, love of crafting and gardening. She taught me to be considerate, kind and loving. My dad was hardworking. He blessed me with my sense of humor, technical curiosity and skills. He taught me how to appreciate music and delicious food. Although my only sibling and I fought a lot, he has grown to be a kind and generous person. I know he is always there for me, and me for him. My grandparents were always around and I feel fortunate to have grown to adulthood having them in my life and ultimately taking care of them in their late years. There have been accomplishments and failures, but all have taught me important life lessons. Graduating high school was a milestone. So was graduation from community college. I regret not finishing design school (I planned on becoming an interior designer), but after losing my dad...had I not gone into the funeral/mortuary business, I never would have met many dear friends and my husband Mark. And though I've lost many dear loved ones in my life...my dad, grandmas and grandpa, aunties, friends and my loving husband, I have been fortunate enough to have many special friends in my life and of course, Dave. At one time, according to pregnancy tests, I thought I was expecting...but it was false positives. I am lucky to be "Auntie Jenn" to some wonderful kids. And to Dave's kids, I will always be known as "Jenna...like a mom", to which I am proud to say is one of my greatest titles. I have been able to spend my life helping others and I feel really good about my life's work. There are still many things I hope to accomplish in my work lifetime. This past year has been one of personal growth, relationship strengthening and creative output. I hope to continue with all of them and more!