Like Sands Through the Hourglass. . .

. . . these are the days of my life.

35. Here I am on the eve of my 35th birthday, and all I can think is. . .

It doesn't seem possible.

How could I have lived 35 years already? What happened?

Me as a wee little lass - 1975?

Have I grown? Have I changed? Have I learned anything?

Yes, I've grown. Yes, I've changed. Yes, I've learned. . . at least I'd like to think so!

What amazing experiences these years have brought! I've seen a roadrunner racing across the acrid Arizona desert. I've nearly drowned as a child in the Atlantic Ocean at Myrtle Beach. I've seen my daddy charged by a mama moose in our backyard in Alaska. I've graduated from high school, beauty school and college.

Arkadelphia, AR 1999

Arkadelphia, AR 1997

I've lost 2 grandfathers, 1 grandmother, an uncle and my daddy. I've lost 3 babies of my own.

I've found love. I've made a family.

Wedding Day - July 25, 1998

I've learned what true friends are, and what true friends aren't.

I've been hurt beyond measure.

I've also been loved beyond measure. I've spent many hours laughing, crying in joy, and crying in pain. I've mourned. I've rejoiced. I've celebrated!

I graduated from Ben Eielson High School in Alaska 17 years ago. I'm not the same person I was then. I don't trust quite so easily. I'm less sure of myself. To be honest, I'm probably a lot bit more selfish than I was then. But I wouldn't go back - and I won't regret.

High School graduation 1992

This past year alone has brought tremendous changes to my life. I've had another baby. I've made friends and lost friends. I've been through some of the best and worst times of my life in these past 12 months. We've had struggles in our family and struggles financially.

But this family is closer than I believe we've ever been. We're closer to the Lord and closer to each other.

Lord willing, I've got at least another 35 years on this earth. I'm sure many more struggles and many more successes are in store for me. I will continue to laugh, to cry, to rejoice and to mourn.

I will continue to grow. I will continue to change. And hopefully, I will continue to learn.

So, what has your journey in life taught you? What would you encourage me to do to live the rest of my life, however long that is, to the fullest?