I have committed to blogging every day in 2024! I blog to document the journey to my heart, to share the struggles and joys, and to invite others to join me on a lifelong journey to live with integrity, honesty, kindness, and full of grace. All that looks so good in writing, but living it isn’t simple. And every day, I am given a fresh start to go again and give it my best attempt. I am so grateful!
It is essential to know that one of the most enjoyable parts of my daily life is the people in my village. I am so grateful for so many, and this year, I will take time to pay tribute to different people who encourage me to be my best. As you read my short tributes, I invite you to think of someone you can send some good words to!
Tonight, I pay tribute to two dear people who share a birthday!
This
is my Mom’s youngest sister. The world became a better place on January 6, 1950, when she entered the world. She was born in Friesland, Netherlands.
She is also known as Dorothy, Dirkje, Dot, Aunt Dot, Beppe Dot, and Beppe Dorothy. Aunt Dot moved to Grand Rapids in 1976 and filled the role of “extra parent” in our family. We have shared so many days, meals, conversations, and travels.
After I graduated from grad school, I bought a house across the street from Aunt Dot. I am so grateful to have been able to have Aunt Dot in my childhood stories and even more grateful to share adult life with her.
Aunt Dot, Happy Birthday. I am grateful for your life and how you have impacted mine. You have believed in me and listened to many stories from my daily life. We have traveled to many places; those memories are some of my favorites! Your gifts of organization and order have brought structure to my home! I am grateful for your life, the spaces we share, and the journey of living life as neighbors, family, and friends. I love you and trust that in this coming year, we will continue to enjoy the moments of life, the laughter, and the sacred spaces, and I trust that in the unknown, we will navigate and live each day to its fullest! Happy 74th! Because I know you, I have been changed for good! ❤️
And on 
January 6, 1997, my heart exploded when this bright-eyed Olivia Grace was born to my brother and sister-in-law. Olivia grew up with a tribe of cousins who always had fun
together. I learned of Olivia’s tenacious competitive spirit when she hung with this crew. And I learned of her compassionate and tender heart when she would write her Beppe letters back and forth. As she grew, she learned about hardship and heartache, grief and loss, scholarships, Nationals, healing and loving. Olivia, you are a bright spot in my life. You have 
learned to ensure good care for your mind, body, and soul. You have invested in yourself and those who are dear to you! You have learned about boundaries and generous space and are living your best life. You are disciplined, kind to yourself and others, and an excellent professional career woman! You are funny, tender, sassy, honest, sincere and beautiful. I am excited to watch 27 unfold. You have my commitment to support and encourage you, cheer you on, and celebrate with you! I love life more with you as my niece, co-worker, and friend! Because I know you, I have been changed for good! ❤️
Hope you both have a blessed birthday