This is my life...it's not what it was before...all of these feelings I've shared...and these are my dreams...that I'd never lived before... I'm stealing a few minutes here to share my thoughts on what has been a beautiful week. I turned 33 Tuesday, and like the other milestones I've reached in the last 9 months, it was different. Now that we're here...so far away...all the struggle we thought was in vain...all the mistakes...one life contained...they all finally start to go away Countless text and Facebook messages. A birthday song from my students. Hand-made gifts. Birthday songs from my nephews (including one about how I'm the best aunt in the world). A phone call from one of my favorite people who mentioned my "beautiful blue eyes". The most amazing hot shower after almost a week of ice cold sponge baths. Enchilada gravy with tortilla chips. Now that we're here...so far away...and I feel like I can face the day...I can forgive...and I'm...