Today I'm 28 years old. When I was 6 my mom was 28, and my present to her was to never grow older. That was her present to me, today, too. Too cute!

Sadly, I want to get older. I'm looking forward to 30. I'm not sure why, I'm sure it'll just be any other year, but I am.

Today has been the best day. The perfect birthday. Even better than the year we went to Disney. It's been so soft and peaceful. We were supposed to go on a dolphin sighting cruise, but I just wanted to stay in and snuggle. It's just the mood I was in. I got to see dolphins on Sunday, and we can go on the cruise next week.

Shawn went out this morning and brought me home manga and a birthday cake. He's making me dinner. We've been snuggling while I played Sims2 he bought me yesterday and we've watched Tsubasa together. I spent the time he was out reading Big Girl Knits, my other present. There are several designs in there that I'm in love with and I can't wait to get good enough to make.

I got lots of "happy birthdays" from the people in my life. Jonathan caught me first thing this morning, Lin made me a hilarious birthday graphic, and Winter altered the guild MoTD. I really didn't want any gifts (other than to be pregnant, which, sadly, didn't happen), though I know Shawn had a blast shopping for me. I've felt so loved today - that's all the presents I wanted.

I know at 28 years old, I'm probably not considered much of a success - no degree, no children, no career. But I feel successful. I've survived so much and come out glowing with joy. I've been blessed by the love of some wonderful people, and while it's not the typical definition of success, I couldn't ask for more than the love-filled, authentic life I have now. Only one thing is missing, and hopefully that will come soon.