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This weekend is packed with celebrations beginning with my great-niece Elizabeth Kay’s first birthday Saturday. The event will be marked with a parade of family and friends who are anxious to get a glimpse of the birthday girl.

Saturday is also my 61st birthday, and it’s my honor to share that day with Elizabeth Kay. Adding another year to my age is a blessing, and I refuse to complain about getting older. I plan to spend the rest of my life grateful and determined to live each day to the fullest. There are no ordinary days for me; every day holds something extraordinary if I just open my eyes and look for it.

And Sunday is Mother’s Day! Motherhood has been the most challenging role of my life, yet one of my greatest joys. I’ve been far from perfect, but if I’ve done anything right, I have given my five children the gift of being loved immensely and intensely every second of their lives.

I’ve had an excellent example, my own mom, Jeanne Keller, and I plan to drive by and wave to her Sunday. She’s the quiet strength who balances my dad’s outgoing and impulsive nature, and the role model for my every decision. She loves unconditionally, shares unselfishly and exhibits patience my husband only dreams of being mine. It’s easy to celebrate her on Mother’s Day.

I thank God for other women who have also served as examples for me. Many of them not only care for their own children, but impact the lives of nieces, nephews, grandchildren, students, children of friends, the neighbor’s children, and foster children. And I do not neglect to pray for women whose hearts are filled with love to give, yet their wombs are empty.

While I’m looking forward to the weekend, even on days without birthday or Mother’s Day celebrations, I like to wake up and greet the day with the words of Psalm 118:24. “This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”

Ronny Michel can be reached at rmichel@rtconline.com.