Today is my birthday. Last night before I went to sleep I decided that I would make full use of every moment of my day. I would feel each blessing of the gift of life and another year. Reflecting back on my day, this is what I learned and what I would love to share with you.
I woke up at 6:30am to meditate. This is something that brings me joy and I thought back to the years when I was a kid when waking up on your birthday was filled with exhilaration. I connected to this feeling and welcomed it into my day (even if I was turning 48 and not 8.) Sometimes we do things by rote because we do the things we do, but this time I first connected to the joy that meditation brings me and how lucky I feel to have found this inner peace with which to start my day off on; before anyone was awake. Time for me. And me time! Even although breathing is not something we choose to do, when we actually notice it, it is a magnificent gift; every breath is life granted again and then again.
Off to the gym, where I am so grateful for the strength of my body to be able to keep me fit. Last year on my birthday I could not do a head stand, and this year I can. I feel wonderful about this as it has shown me how dedication and commitment to something brings rewards. This has been a life lesson for me. I never thought it was possible. Then I took some moments to pray under a beautiful oak tree whose leaves spread out in every direction. The shade is such a blessing in this heat, and the greenery brings me joy. I heard a concept recently that I thought about as I prayed. “Imagine if you woke up tomorrow with only that which you thanked for yesterday.” Wow. Gratitude for every limb, bodily function and blessings that I have been gifted with, and everything that I need, I already have. What a way to start off the day. 
Next up, a fun ladies pool party & green juice! A power zing of ginger (lots of it), carrot, cucumber & celery. For those of you who know me, you might be wondering where cheesecake is fitting in, but that’s later on… Came home to enjoy my 1000 piece puzzle of puppies drinking water, coffee and connecting with my daughter and then lunch and mushroom cheese lasagna with my best friend! The day is just getting better and better, with a constant flow of loving WhatsApps, FaceBook messages and phone calls from all over the world. Before lunch I sat in my garden which is filled with bright flowers that are so happy. I poured myself a Baileys, ice and milk in my crystal glass, and sipped it slowly while enjoying my garden and feeling thankful to be alive. Finally, afternoon cheesecake time arrives with bonding time with another daughter. The blessing of connection!
They say that gratefulness is a great fullness that you feel. This was me! Wow, my heart was so full (and my tummy), but, keeping the best for last, still made space for sunset, sushi and breezers on the beach with my wonderful husband as the sun was setting. When we drove into the driveway our Israeli flag was waving from side to side welcoming me. Another blessing. I can’t believe I have the privilege to live in Israel! There are no words to describe this.
A perfect day.
I didn’t work, I didn’t wash, I didn’t clean, (I did all that the day before – lol). I just spent time basking in the joy of being alive with the important things that count – family, friends, connecting, loving relationships and being with myself. And this day was created this way because I set an intention to notice my blessings and feel the gift of life. Imagine if we could do this everyday!
