… it is spent without the one that birthed you.

This past week I celebrated my 39th birthday…
and it was my first birthday without Mama.

In years past, it would be the day I would call her
or walk up to her to hug her and thank her for choosing to be a mother
and for giving me the gift of life…
and how, without her, there would be no me…
telling her “Happy Birth(ing) Day”.

She was my greatest mentor, influence, supporter,
encourager, confidant, friend, and more.

And though I had to spend my birthday without her,
I still give thanks to and for her …
for all she did and for who she was.

She is missed so much. Every day.

But I am forever blessed that she was my mama.