“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.” James 1:17

Have you ever had one of those birthdays that just seem to keep going? This has been my experience this year and I kinda like it. There have been so many sweet gifts, texts, messages, cards and surprises. I have so much to be grateful for, all unexpected and undeserved. A reminder of His grace.

In the midst of all the celebrating, I have missed my mom more this year. She was an incredible gift giver and each one had so much thought behind it. Her cards were a work of art and communicated her heart. Her and I had a hard time telling each other how we felt sometimes, so a card gave both of us an opportunity to tell one another that we loved each other.

I had talked to the Lord about this hurt, but no one else. Somethings are just between the two of us. So, with only Him knowing how my heart felt, you have got to hear about the unexpected surprise I found today.

One of our children left a pair of shoes on the stairs for days. I found the owner and went to put them in their closet. On a high shelf I saw one of my moms baskets that I have and pulled it down. Inside was the best cookbook of all time and a few other treasures. There was this notebook that was divided by months and had everyone’s birthdays recorded. Each month had a pocket that would hold cards. I flipped through and guess what I found in the pocket for October? A card for me!!! Can you believe it? More than nine years ago, my mom bought a card for me, not knowing she would not be alive for my next birthday. Only the Lord could have known exactly what I needed. He is a good God. I pray you know Him.