Earlier last week, I celebrated my 43rd birthday. I didn’t throw a party or have a birthday cake. In fact, it was very low key, just the way I like it. But this year, I got to celebrate my birthday with two more people in my life – Cruz and Levi!

This year’s birthday is quite different from last year’s when I turned 42. when I was ready to accept the fact that I would not be able to have anymore children. I was ready to move on and ready to start new adventures in life. But here I am…a year later. Instead of being dressed up and posing in front of a mural or going out to a nice steak restaurant, I was home with two babies in my arms and with Luke sitting by my side. The best gifts in life and all that I can ever ask for.

I’m a firm believer in the phrase “a lot can happen in a year” because I never expected to have twins or to have anymore children at the age of 42 and be celebrating my 43rd birthday with more children in my life. I thank God for these miracles and for Luke, who has always made me feel special every day of his life.

Motherhood is not easy but I am loving the surprises and the rewards. I  have a feeling this year will be full of new adventures (with more family travel and Chicago explorations) and new challenges but I’m going to make the best of each moment.

Here’s to 43!

(btw: I guess I’m back to be a “mom blogger” in Chicago but I promise I will share more than just my motherhood journey this year)