Diamonds Aren't Forever

Have you ever lost something that was precious to you? A journal or photo album, a cross-stitch from a friend, a wedding ring or anniversary gift, a note from a loved one, or a family heirloom?

Last year, a dear friend gave me a bracelet to say thank you. I loved the bracelet, in part, because it was beautiful, but mostly because it was from my friend, and I wore it every day.

I didn’t realize that the bracelet had a faulty clasp and one day, I looked down at my wrist and the bracelet was not there. I was completely devastated. I tore everything apart looking for that bracelet and even enlisted others to help me search. I e-mailed or called everyone I had seen since the last time I knew the bracelet was there. I would have paid a large price to have it returned.

Thankfully, my brother found it at his house the next day and I had it back on my wrist the day after that. I was so happy to have it returned.

I have lost many other things through the years – some I did not value as much as that bracelet, other “things” have left a hole that cannot be filled.

Wouldn’t it be great if all that we love and then lose could be restored as easily as my beautiful little bracelet? Or even better: never go missing in the first place?

27

For those of you who have been under the impression that I am in my "late 30's," I wanted to dispel that silly myth with some photos of my recent birthday celebrations. Special thanks to my mom and dad for a wonderful family party and to Edgar & Jacob for arranging a surprise lunch with some work friends.





So - did you see the BIG 27 on that cake?? Clearly the Harmons Bakery recognizes my age, or they certainly would not have agreed to put 27 on my cake (when I called and ordered it and gave them instructions about what should go on it). And surely if Edgar had told the man at Red Iguana to put a 27 on my cake there, he would have done so. What more proof does anyone need really?

Thanks family & friends for coming to my parties (and to mom and dad and Brad for paying for them)!

(P.S. There was nearly a tragedy a couple days after my birthday when Gracie, my brother's dog, almost ate the "7" candle from the all-important "27" matching set pictured on the lovely cake above. These precious artifacts have survived for uhh . . . some time. Certainly wouldn't want to lose them now.)