It's My Birthday!

Today I celebrate my 111th birthday!

Haha, just kidding. That’s a quote from The Lord of the Rings, my favorite book and movie. But it is my birthday today—I’m 37 years old. Whoa!

I’ve had a wonderful day surrounded by family and friends, with dozens of messages pouring in through texts, calls, and social media. It’s humbling to feel so much love, and I’m incredibly grateful.

As I reflect on my life—even just the past five years—it’s amazing to see how much has changed. Out of curiosity, I searched my phone for photos from February 17 each year since 2020. What a journey it has been! So, come take a walk down memory lane with me.

2020:

Right before the world shut down, my husband and I were lucky enough to go dog sledding with a tour company a couple of hours from home. One of our sled dogs was a direct descendant of Togo! (Look him up—his story is incredible.) It was an unforgettable experience.

2021:

I was four months pregnant with our daughter, Arwen Rose, and absolutely miserable with morning sickness. Let’s just say it wasn’t my most glamorous birthday!

2022:

My first birthday as a mama! I could never have imagined how much I would love being a mom. Even with the ups and downs of figuring it all out, I soaked up every moment with my baby girl. I was also blessed to stay home with her for the first year of her life—something I’ll always cherish.

2023:

I was in Arizona for a conference for my new job. I had only been there six months, but I was already learning so much. That birthday, though, I knew, deep down— that I had cancer. I was in the middle of tests and doctor’s appointments, but I could feel the tumor. Every part of me wanted to believe it was anything else, but my heart knew. Three weeks later, I was diagnosed with stage 3 Triple Negative Breast Cancer.

2024:

One week earlier, I had finished my final radiation treatment. We were celebrating a huge milestone—being on the road to cancer-free! After a year of so many unknowns, just being able to celebrate another birthday was a gift. I was overwhelmed with gratitude for the care I received from doctors, nurses, family, friends, and most importantly, God.

2025:

Here we are—cancer free! I feel so good. My energy is back. I’m getting stronger every day, and I finally feel like me again. This past week, I took Arwen and Geovanny to Disney World. It was an amazing mix of family, adventure, and work. And I know there’s so much more ahead this year.

Moral of the Story:

Take a moment to reflect today. On anything. Be grateful, because there is always something to be grateful for. Love your people. Hug someone. Send a text. Life is meant to be lived—with joy, with purpose, with gratitude. And I think I’m finally starting to understand what that truly means.

Love,

Erica❤️🌺