Mom you make 65 look like the new 45. You are gorgeous inside and out, the best Grana to my girls, kind, caring, thoughtful, unique, and resilient. I am so very lucky to have had you as my role model growing up and even now.
I love getting older because of you. As I continue to learn about myself and finally become comfortable in my own skin (after 37 short years), I understand so much more about you. I see how hard and scary and lonely it must have been to raise two young children on your own. I am amazed that you always did it with grace.
I see how being a “free-spirit” really means that you are brave enough to follow your heart and never settle. You have always had the courage to do the hard work to make your life happy, even when it is the road less traveled and others didn’t understand your choices.
At every turn you have embraced how life unfolds and evolves. You have shown me how people are in your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime and that it’s okay to let go, take chances, and love with all you have.
I am so proud of of you Mom and I love you so much. You have been my reason, you’ve been there for all my seasons, and I’m so glad I get you for a lifetime. Happy 65th Birthday.
Love,
Katie
p.s. I asked our family and friends what their favorite thing about you is… So you know that I’m not the only one in awe of you, here is what they had to say.
Your undying free spirit and desire to delve into the unknown has always been inspiring. You’ve always bounced back and forged ahead despite the odds. 65 and still young at heart! – Flash
Happy Birthday AJ- Despite all the hardships you’ve faced, you are still one of the most positive people I know. You are always smiling. You also are so creative. Your house was always decorated well and so colorful…Katie gets it from you!!! I admire you for raising two amazing children as a single mother. Your sacrifices for them is undeniable. That takes a lot of courage and strength and you exemplify both qualities. I know we don’t get to see eachother much, but I know we’ve had a special bond from the day you became an aunt. I love you and hope you have a wonderful day celebrating. Love, Staci
I have always thought of you as one of my sisters! What I love most about you is what we both share, our love of animals! Happy Birthday Jana!! Cheers to many more!! Love, Ruth Ann and Holmes
To one of my oldest and dearest friends, all 53 years. You have been through much but you always remain Jana. I truly cherish our friendship and wish you the Happiest of Birthdays. – John Howren
What a kind and supportive mother she is. Always going out of her way to help others and is a genuinely a good person. – Kyle
My favorite thing about Jana is that she always goes out of her way to send cards to the girls on every holiday and spends time with them doing creative stuff and messy projects that they love! – Lane
I have the best memories of my AJ. We’ve been on lots of adventures. My favorites were our beach trips. Not only the time at the beach, but the road trip getting there! I loved blaring music and singing loudly with you and my cousins. You’ve always loved me like I was your own. Love you so much! – Stef
My favorite things about Jana are that she is my best friend, having no reservations and loving me for who I am without question. She is one of the most loving and loyal people I have ever known. She is more than a sister to me!!! – Tish
This was an epic Sissy fail that I didn’t see this request…but in my defense I didn’t forget her birthday and I did call her on March 16th. I can’t top anything that anybody has said about her….only agree and say that she is my favorite sister!!