Happy Birthday To You!

Happy Birthday, Julia! Yes, Julia of Helen Julia! Today is my Grandmother's birthday! She turns 85 years old and I am so grateful to have her in my life!

If you were not aware that the name Helen Julia was inspired by my precious Grandmothers, Helen Hargrove and Julia Annette Calderon, now you are aware! If you are fortunate enough to have your grandma in your life, you know how important it is to cherish every moment, grasp every word and absorb all of her wisdom. The old saying goes "Mother knows best". In reality it is "Grandma knows best". When I amuse Grandma Julia with my life experiences and curiosity, her chuckle says it all... "You foolish child! You have so much to learn." But in the same breath, I am educated with her wisdom. I listen to her trips down memory lane when she experienced a real Great Depression! Love meant forever! Communication was love letters sent through mail (the post office). Entertainment was family gathered around a radio to hear the late night talk show. And, my favorite that I am blessed to continue to experience with Grandma Julia, a home cooked meal bringing family together to remind us what we should be grateful for! Leave it up to Grandma to receive a dose of reality when needed and help put it all into perspective!

Happy Birthday, Grandma!!! Thank you for creating the woman I have become!

"Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday dear Grandma Julia! Happy Birthday to you!" ... And many more!!!

I love you!!!