Sunday, October 19, 2025

Happy Birthday, Megan!

 


Since my 60th birthday in 2020, my blogging efforts have been mostly spent on my CarpeDiemDay Blog.  However, I have been using this old blog to brag write about the people I love the most for their birthdays.

Today is my oldest child, Megan's, birthday!

I created the posted slideshow with pictures of her from infancy to current day, set to the tune of "What a Wonderful World" (with my changed lyrics to "What a Wonderful Girl."  Louis Armstrong's sweet song was playing at Megan's wedding and I remember getting all teary-eyed and happy. It's my "Megan song" from my 60-song playlist.

10 Things I Love About You, Megan

1. I love your discipline and drive. No matter what challenge you undertake, you stay focused and work 10 times harder than most people would.  (I'm sure that I'm underestimating it with "10x" but not really sure how to get the actual stats.) I think it's amazing that you are pursuing becoming an orthopedic surgeon as a whole new second important career.

2. I love how talented you are at so many things.  Though it seems effortless and that you seem to be just naturally talented in so many areas, I'm sure your talent also comes from that discipline and drive I just noted.  One example is your artistic talents. I'm just amazed that you were easily able to paint "in Bob Ross's style" a painting as a GISH Scavenger Hunt challenge!  And I love that you gave it to me to hang in my utility room!


3. I love how you are such a good designer, whether we're talking about interior design, landscaping, sewing, crafting.  I guess this is kind of a continuation of #2 and I could use up more than my list of 10 just listing your talents, but I suppose I'm especially impressed with all of your artistic talents since this is an area that doesn't come at all naturally for me.  I appreciate how you've helped me with advice on interior decorating and how you and Chris created my backyard patio!

4. I love your creativity! I love how whether it's for family costumes or theme parties, you're able to create the most amazing designs! I've often thought you should write a book or have a social media channel or something to share your creativity, but I know you're too busy creating things! I'm glad you're also talented with photography and at least have photos that capture all your creative work.

5. I love that you're always trying to better yourself. Though in most areas, you already are head and shoulders above the crowd, you still work to improve. If there is ever a conflict or misunderstanding, you reflect and work at understanding how you can improve yourself and the situation. During the most difficult times in our relationship, I appreciated how you didn't give up.

6. I love your role as a wife. I've listened to the podcast you were on which described the partnership you and Chris have. I've always said that the two of you complement one another so well. I think the differences in your personalities have helped you each grow. I especially have been impressed with the time you take as a couple to celebrate each "Anniversaur" as well as the annual special Anniversary Trip.

7. I love your playfulness and spirit in being up for almost any game. Like everything else (Refer to Item #1) you give any game your all.  For example, when I invited you to do the Beauty and the Beast CluedUp Game, even though the others in your family couldn't go, you signed up with me and Scotty.  Not only that, you made yourself an Amazing Belle costume, scoring us a "Best Costumed" Team prize! (Refer to Item #4.)



8. I love what a good mother you are.  I'm so grateful that I've been able to live close to your family and see your kids grow from babies to competent young adults.  It's been such a joy to be able to spend time with them and your family throughout the years. I especially appreciated being able to help with babysitting and to be part of your children's lives from the start.

9. I love that you take the time for family. You've taken the time, not only for your own family, but for extended family.  This was evident with all of Chris's family as well as even visiting Grandma and Grandpa in Sacramento, and making the effort to come to Uncle Neal's 60th Surprise Party.

10. I love the support you've given me throughout your life, but especially since my divorce.  Whether it was with my book, my health, my house, or even my dress for Rachele's wedding - you are there with confidence and sage suggestions.

Happy Birthday, My Wonderful Girl!  I love you!