celebrating life

when i woke up yesterday, the first thing i saw on my phone was an SMS from my college best friend (whom i do not see often but who always has the right things to say when i need them): happy birthday! we know it's not the birthday you want but may you find joy in the thought that Marti, Zach, Minoy, Mama and all the rest are well. And they are with you. God bless you.

yes, despite the grief, i have so many blessings to thank the Lord for. although we terribly, sorely missed Daddy, my aunt and my cousin at the birthday dinner last night, we celebrated. we celebrated the gift of life, the gift of my life. and i am very grateful for so many things like family and friends. the gift of faith and prayer that keep us going each day. strength to survive every sad day. househelp and yayas. funds enough to sustain us. a loving and very supportive husband. adorable toddlers. good health. and so much more.

words are not enough to express my gratitude for all your love and thoughtfulness. Aileen's birthday post for me is sweet and moving. for some reasons, i couldn't leave a comment at her site. Therese posted a lovely ecard for me at FB and Kaith surprised me with a pretty notebook and a card with a very heartwarming message sent through LBC. i was amazed they arrived here on time. my ever generous brother also surprised me with an iphone! i just have to write it here because really, not everyone has a brother like him and i really couldn't afford to buy myself an iphone in this lifetime. my dearest and loving mom threw an intimate birthday dinner for me.

and to all who called, sent me emails and text messages and gifts, and left comments at my FB and everywhere else, THANK YOU so very much! you really made my (sad) birthday happy.