INSPIRASUNS

I know there was a TV series named this, but no that’s not what this little blog is about this morning. No, it’s a little more personal than that, although I guess some would say that show was personal 🙂 .

I grew up the youngest of three children, I’m the only girl of the three, so yes, I have two older brothers. Like other families, and girls in my situation, having two older brothers had its plusses and minus’, good, bad, ups and downs, you name it. On one hand, they were always there to protect me. Many a time they stepped in to save me from getting hurt in various ways. They helped me develop my skills as an athlete, (yes I grew up a tomboy of course). They came to my basketball, volleyball, and softball games, taught me how to skateboard and ride a mini bike, ya all the important stuff growing up 🙂 .  They taught me important lessons, like NEVER ride on the handlebars of a bike, (she says recalling the time my older brother did so and hit a bump to send me flying face first onto the sidewalk).

There were the downsides of being the younger sister to two older brothers. For instance, I was the practice dummy when new wrestling moves were learned.  You see, my older brother was a state contender with his high school wrestling team.  Ya, he would learn something new and would have to practice on me after school.  I was glad to do my part if it meant him getting a state title 🙂 .  I was also the brunt of the practical jokes as well, like most younger siblings.

As I look back on those times, I wouldn’t trade any of them for anything. Our family didn’t have much growing up, my mom did everything she could to provide us with all we needed, and she did. We were tight, we loved, and do love each other more than anything. She taught us the value of working hard, being honest, and treating others with respect. She also taught us not to back down from a challenge.

So, why do I bring all these memories up today? Well, today my older brother Michael celebrates a birthday. He’s the middle child, next in line after me.  Just because we were closer in age, we spent more time together and have a special bond, one that I think we both rely on at various times, a bond I wouldn’t trade for anything.

As with others I love, I share the birthday prayer with you Michael.

Watch over thy child, O Lord, as his days increase; bless and
guide him wherever he may be. Strengthen him when he
stands; comfort him when discouraged or sorrowful; raise
him up if he fall; and in his heart may thy peace which
passeth understanding abide all the days of his life;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Thank you for always being there, for the strength, love, and support you have given me over the years. Cheers to another year, and prayers for the happiest of days. I love you, Michael 🙂 .

Have a great day my friends, and if you are celebrating a birthday today, may it be filled with family, friends, love, and….oh ya, cake!

Psalm 118:24
This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.