. . . birthday reflections and montana weddings . . .

This weekend, it was my birthday.

I love my birthday.

Actually, it might be safe to say, I love parties, and I use my birthday as an excuse to throw one.

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Every year – a different kind of party.

A wine tasting party, a cocktail party, a fiesta . . . and the list goes on.

They always involve something new, a specialty drink, and most often – dressing up.

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This year, it was different.

I am in a new place.

New people.

I am away from all of my friends that know and love the “party Christina.”

Needless to say, this year was the first in a very very long time  . . . that I did not throw myself a party.

Honestly, I was feeling very good about it.  I am a bit tired, and I think maybe the party girl in me may be in hibernation for awhile.

So, I did something new.  I spent the day with my kids – with my husband.  We put on our tennis shoes, packed our bags with water and apples, and went out to explore this new city we now call home.

WE walked the streets, climbed sculptures, and took pictures!!!  Lots of pictures!!!

There was a moment in my day, when I looked at my children, playing together, and felt like I couldn’t breathe.  My breath was taken away by the amazing beauty that was right in front of me.  I didn’t want the moment to end. . . ever.

In that moment, I couldn’t imagine being more proud, happy, content with my children.

In that moment, I was reminded of a woman I met just a few months ago.

When I met her, she had that same look about her.

joy and pride.

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I was taking pictures at her son’s wedding, and this a picture of her when they were walking in to be married.  I don’t think I will ever forget how happy she looked.  So, so beautiful.

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It wasn’t until just this past week, though, that I understood fully, how deep the roots of joy and pride, love and happiness burrowed into her heart.

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Over the years, I have had the pleasure of getting to know her daughter and her family – watching her children grow, photographing special moments.

I will be one proud mama, if my children continue to grow in adults just like Dayna – always willing to help and encourage.

I will be one proud mama, if my children find a mate just like Dan – always willing to join in conversation, share life and a good laugh.

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Two weeks ago,   I met her other daughter, her husband, and their new sweet baby girls.

I will be one proud mama, if my children continue to grow into adults just like Alesha – always willing love with all their hearts.

I will be one proud mama, if my children find a mate just like Rich – strong, happy, and courageous.

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Then, just last week, I had the pleasure of meeting her son, his beautiful wife, and super spunky one year old!!!

I will be one proud mama, if my children continue to grow into adults just like Pat – so incredibly gracious and helpful.

And, I will be one proud mama, if my children find a mate just like Allison – kind and open hearted.

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I know there are two other siblings out there . . .that I haven’t gotten to know as well, yet.  I am sure, though, that this mother’s deep well of joy and pride contains them as well.

Thank you, Aleta, for sharing your children and their memories with me.

I am blessed.

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To all of you, enjoy a peek at this beautiful Montana fall wedding.

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