Birthdays

9 years ago today Makenzie, our youngest daughter, became the best birthday present a mother could get. It was a total surprise. She was actually due on Christmas day and came 5 weeks early. There is also another blessing in this birthday celebration. Makenzie was not expected to make it to her 5th birthday little on her 9th. Although the mitochondrial disease is definitely starting to take its toll on her body, she continues to be with us and brings us joy. 

Every birthday as well as many other times, I am reminded that there is no guarantee on how life will go. We need to live each day to its fullest. In a world where life is hectic, we forget about relationships and how important they are. Our culture measures success by who is the "busiest" and who has the most stuff, but in the end is that what people remember you for when it is all said and done. 

The biggest lesson that Makenzie's disease has taught me was to not take life for granted. It showed me that I truly am not in control no matter how much I want to be and it started me on the long track to sustainable living. I hope we will have more birthday with Makenzie but I will enjoy whatever time we have left. 

Today, I am thankful for Makenzie's 9th birthday.