A Birthday Present For Myself

Tomorrow is my 36th birthday.

The past few years, I’ve been down the shore for my birthday, celebrating with family and friends. One thing I love about my birthday is that it’s in late summer – I love this time of year, because it feels peaceful – a slowing down compared to the excitement of the start of summer.

I’m not one to make a huge deal about my birthday. The only “gifts” I want are spending time with people I love and enjoying a great meal. Maybe I’ll get a manicure or take half the day off if my birthday falls on a weekday.

This year, my birthday present for myself is the gift of mindfulness. I will enjoy the moment, feel gratitude, and try my absolute hardest to stay present.

I don’t want to think about MS on my birthday this year. I am not going to ignore my symptoms or pretend that everything is ok if I don’t feel my best. I’m just choosing to think about it actively. The focus will be on the moment.

On my agenda: Wake up and enjoy my coffee on the deck to get some fresh air and appreciate the cool morning. Have a productive but not stressful workday. Stretching and meditation. Get a little dressed up and eat a delish dinner out. Cheers with a satisfying Vermentino. Reading, then sleep.

Sounds like exactly how I want to spend my birthday.

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