The Last Twenty-One

My youngest child turned 21 years old on Friday. That feels like a big deal, so I wanted to write about it for a minute.

Here he is 3 years ago when he graduated high school:

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52 Stories: A Birthday, Gatherings and Family

I found some photos of a family gathering at our first house. From the ages of the children and my haircut, I am fairly certain this is Eric's birthday in 1990, so his 28th.

The official #52Stories question I found on FamilySearch had to do with what sacrifices your parents made to make holidays magical. Riffing off of that, these photos are special to me because they remind me of all the times my parents and siblings made the effort to gather together for birthdays and holidays.

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A Happy Birthday to Sara

Twenty-two years ago today, I became the mother of a daughter. After 3 sons, it was not a sure bet in my mind, and back then, when they looked at the blurry sonogram and told me I was having a girl, I didn't actually believe it 100% until she arrived.

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Forty-Nine

Last Sunday was my 49th birthday. I think I confused some people when I said in a recent Instagram post that I would be entering my 50th year, but it's true. I have finished 49 years, and have now begun my 50th year. Lots of people use this time as a touchstone, a time to get busy making unfulfilled dreams come true or go to places they've always wanted to go. I love hearing about those kinds of years for people, especially if it means that there is discovery and joy.

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Johnathan's Birth Story

Every so often, I get the urge to tell one of my kids' birth stories. Today is Johnathan's turn. I scanned some photos of his Birth Day and became quite emotional looking at our younger selves, his and mine.

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Samuel at age 20

My third child turned 20 today. I don't have a current photo of him because he is, at this very moment serving a mission for the Lord in California and he is working too hard to send me any photos. :o) I do like this picture because it makes me laugh that he wanted photos in his jacket and tie but could only muster getting dressed up from the hips up.  As it should be.

I did get to talk to him the week before his birthday on Mother's day and it was wonderful to hear his voice and know how happy he is. He's healthy, busy, beloved by his associate missionaries and doing just great.

Here is the best part about having a missionary son. Even though I know my kids love me and I love them, the letters we write while they are away from home are amazing because they give us the opportunity to put it all in words.

Subject: Hi Momma
Just thought I'd get one quick note in
I love you. 

Thanks for being my momma
Love
Elder Nuss

Dear Momma,
Just to let you know, my camera has been deathly ill until recently, so I will be able to resume taking pictures now!
Also, I love you and appreciate you. The more I think on your life, the more I say, "Man, my mom is awesome"
Love
Elder Nuss


Subject: Hi Mom
I love you
Elder Nuss

So, he may be gone from my sight and my arms and my immediate orbit, but each week I receive treasures like that to read and ponder. It doesn't really feel like a sacrifice when I see what is happening to his heart, his mind, his spirituality, his resolve and his knowledge of who he truly is.

And so today, Dear Sam,  even thought I can't wish it in person, a very, very happy birthday to you from me.
Love,
Mom

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