37 and a half to life

On this, the eve of my 44th Birthday, I reflect on living another year. I am grateful to be where I am in life; having had the experiences I've had (good and bad). But I wonder what my life would be like had I chosen to live it for myself instead of for others. I have been a mother my entire adult life (also a prison wife) and that leaves very little room for me. It may sound silly but sometimes I feel like I still have some growing up to do. I haven't done a lot of things that other people my age have done; international travel, going 'away' to college (I was a commuter), living alone, having a wedding, or gone to a musical, just to name a few. However, I can happily say that I HAVE; purchased a home or two, raised (ing) five children, gotten an education and also learned a ton about managing Type 1 Diabetes (my son has it). The other day I saw a meme that said, "adulting is hard!" and I chuckled to myself. As my daughter's wedding day approaches ...

January 20, 1995 The sweet baby girl, whose cheeks were so soft and squishy as a little girl, is now a grown woman. She finished High School 6 years ago, graduated from College 2 years ago and completed her Master's Degree 1 year ago. She has been able to accomplish so much in spite of our situation. I can't say it was easy, parenting a strong-minded young woman. One time, when she was about 4 or 5 years old, we went to visit my husband (her father). She was the mini mayor of the visiting room; everyone knew who she was and she greeted anyone who approached her (it was a bit scary, to be honest). So she was doing what she always did, moving around and asking a million questions. I was a bit frustrated with her and told her to quit. To which she replied, "I am NOT a quitter!!!" Her father laughed and I had to chuckle... she spoke the truth! That has always been our daughter; sassy, energetic, loud, inquisitive, passionate and persistent. She has qualities from bo...