Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate June 27.

My wife’s birthday is June 26. As of this year, 2017, the two of us have been married half our lives. That’s a lot of birthdays to celebrate together. June 28, two days later, is Morgan’s birthday. Today, Morgan turns twelve — a “tween” now, officially, although I feel like she’s been a tween for quite some time.

I associate Susan’s birthday with good times from the past, the memories of road trips and vacations and adventures. Morgan’s birthday is more about looking forward; youth, and the road ahead that awaits them.

June 27, the day between those two dates, is a lull in the motion — a break from the whirlwind of parties and plans and celebrations and cake. It’s one day in the middle of a crazy week where I can pause, appreciate all the great memories we’ve made together, and dream about all the adventures yet to come.

Happy birthday Susan and Morgan. Here’s to all the birthdays we’ve celebrated together and many more.