Today is my birthday. I had to do the math, subtracting my birth year, 1970, from 2009 to remind myself what my number is now. Similar to how I get mixed up on the days of the week, usually only knowing that it’s Thursday because Survivor is on, being aware of how “old” I am seems pretty irrelevant - and not very accurate. Even though age doesn’t mean that much to me, I do love my birthday, always have. When people ask those questions, like “What’s your favorite day of the year?” I guess my answer is April 8th. A couple years back April 8th was also Easter Sunday - and when that happens I’m truly all a buzz, because my second favorite day of the year is probably Easter.

There are people who don’t like their birthdays, but I enjoy taking the time to reflect on the day I entered the human race. I also like to take the time to think of my mom, and to thank her for all her hard work to get me here. I’ve often thought a person’s birthday should be more about the woman who gave them life, Lord knows she did all the work! Today is special for me, in that my mom is here visiting me. It’s the first time in years we’ve been together on April 8th. In a few hours we will head to Old Town Alexandria and spend the afternoon at a day spa.

Some birthdays, like some years on this earth, are more memorable than others. Last year it was tacos and beer in Quartzite, AZ. A few years back it was an eight course dinner in Italy, and a gondola ride on the canals of Venice. And that’s just the way I like my life to be - a balance of both ordinary and extraordinary which helps me maintain perspective.

So, today I celebrate having lived on this planet for 39 years. As with every birthday, I look forward to finding more ways to maximize the opportunities I have in life. Working on this blog is one of last years goals, accomplished just in the nick of time. What’s up for 2009 - I’ll continue to improve the ways in which I’m sharing my opportunities in travel. Thanks to all of you for your friendship and support.