I am 21

Today is my 21st birthday!

I can't believe I'm 21. Twenty felt just a breadth away from my teenage years. At 21, I feel solidly adult. I realize that many people are shocked when they find out I'm 21 today... because I'm married and a mother.  But to me, I'm just the same person I've always been. A girl who's never been quite so old before!

I sat and thought today about my life, and the years I've lived so far. I reminsced on my childhood, my teenage years, my year at college, my years of marriage and my (almost!) year as a mother. I am so thankful to know that even at 21 years of age, I have lived such a full life.

I have sat in awe of the beauty of a sunrise. I have traveled to other parts of the world and marveled at the differences within our human race. I have seen the first snowfall as it blankets the earth in purity. I have heard and felt the pounding thunder of grand waterfalls as their spray pierces my skin. I have climbed mountains to witness sights that take my breath away. I have heard the breaking class and pounding impact of a terrifying car crash. I have shed tears that threatened to break me and leave me shattered forever. I have loved deeply and I have known love in return. I have laughed without fear of losing all happiness. I have danced with my arms waving wildly in ultimate display of unfettered joy. I have felt the power of bringing new life into this world and the reward of holding my very own flesh and blood child in my arms. I have been born, I have lived, I have replaced.

I praise the Lord for the life I have lived. And I am trusting Him for many more beautiful years here on this earth to enjoy my family and watch my children grow. I am thanking Him for years past and hoping in Him for years to come.

I am blessed.

I am loved.

I am ravished.

I am beautiful.

I am in awe.

I am humbled.

I am in love.

I am happy.

I am 21.