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A Birthday Treat


Born 12 weeks early and diagnosed with cystic fibrosis shortly People didn't think I'd live past 5 and tomorrow I turn 34 years old. BOOM BABY!





I wear my age, gray hair, and wrinkles proudly (yes, even the wrinkles). Hats off to all the medication for keeping me alive. And OF COURSE... my parents, doctors, family, and friends. Research and fundraising has really helped some AMAZING, life prolonging drugs come to market. I have a large support system that helps and volunteers. I'm so thankful!!





Heaven knows I needed that support system when I became a foster mom. Especially since I went from zero kids to three specialized (needs) kids. All three of whom I LOVE completely and will do anything for in the future. But, I needed help when I was sick, run down, and tired. As I said in a previous post last mont, " It's a challenge to be foster parents, it's not a challenge to love them" (Blog post: Thinking of Fostering).





I know most parents are guilty of spending money on their kids and not nearly enough on themselves, I'm guilty of that. And I think my life has been so busy and full (see post: Finding some ME TIME) that I haven't gone shopping for myself in WAY too long. Even worse, I haven't bought new clothes that fit since my (AWESOME) weight gain! Yes, as a person with CF, I'm easily malnourished, so I'm encouraged to gain weight all the time. So when I'm busting out of my jeans, I'm proud. But yipes, I need to shop.





Theatre Snacks & Enzymes




I had told Andrew for my birthday I wanted to get a new piece of clothing, spend the day with my family, and see the movie "Five Feet Apart" in the theatre at some point. (on an afternoon on a weekday- less crowds).





WELL, last week we made plans to have my family come over and we went to see "Five Feet Apart" on Tuesday. I posted a review video on my Blog's Facebook page HERE. I really did enjoy the movie, but I think it's important to discuss a lot of the topics, so please check out the video at the link. But, the cool and unexpected shock came last week, when a local shop: Seventh Street Boutique decided to give an outfit giveaway for a foster parent in the area. Lots of ladies were nominated and I was showered with love as lots of family & friends. I wasn't drawn as the winner of the outfit & accessories! But, the boutique felt the emotions behind all the nominations that I & one other local friend received, that we also will get a free article of clothing: either Shirt, Pants, or dress!









Andrew and I went to pick out my piece of clothing TODAY as an early birthday treat and as a way to start the weekend!





Seventh Street Boutique has tons of clothing and accessories! Lots of styles and everything I tried on was comfy too! I was impressed by the range of sizes. Small to plus sizes and lots variety! I highly recommend stopping in and seeing what they have in stock. I mean cute, stylish, affordable, and gives back to community! What's not to love?!





speaking of LOVE...









I LOVE my new DRESS!?!?! I plan to wear it on Easter with the earrings that my babysitting kid made me back when she was like 8 years old!





As far as my birthday plans... Looking forward to spending the day with my family, simple & sweet. Just how I like it!





(PS> I have a birthday fundraiser going on for Cystic Fibrosis Foundation CF Walk: LINK TO DONATE! )


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