Sometimes the strength within you is not a big fiery flame for all to see. It is just a tiny spark that whispers ever so softly, “You got this. Keep going.”

Day 80 of 365.

Do you see these two glorious sisters basking in sunshine? On the left is one of my dearest friends on the planet, Lisa Houze. On the right is her gorgeous sister, Lee Ann Zwiebel. Today is Lee Ann’s birthday, so I wanted to post a little shout out to her awesomeness as a little gift!

Lee Ann and I are acquainted just a bit. I’ve spent a few stolen moments with her over the years as our lives have intersected now and then. Lee Ann is a fiery and competitive sports lover, and her game is volleyball– a sport she’s poured herself into over many years. Often, she posts inspiring quotes on her social media and sometimes I write them down. Always, they speak to me about strength, attitude, and being an encourager to those around us. I find her obvious fierceness and positivity to be inspiring.

Lee Ann is a bright and articulate wife and mother of two. Her daughters, Anna and Lara, are simply some of the very best young people around. It takes a special and devoted mom to raise daughters who are as integrity-filled as these two. She’s supportive and loving, and her children reflect her in their kindness and stunning compassion for others. As women go, Lee Ann is not hard on the eyes. She’s stunningly beautiful. However, what makes her truly gorgeous is her integrity and the quality of her character.

Do you know what else is pretty fantastic about Lee Ann? She’s joyful and very funny! Her sense of humor is immediately apparent upon meeting her and people who make me laugh are among my very favorite, because laughing is my favorite thing!!

Lee Ann, I hope your birthday is a fantastic one, because your life is just SO WORTH CELEBRATING in a BIG WAY! Thank you for the sunshine and giggles! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!