Brandee’s 40th Flame

Posted on by Kerri Elizabeth

“Some souls arrive to teach love by living it out loud.”

Forty years ago, the world shifted quietly and everything began again.
The first heartbeat I ever heard outside my own was hers, the beginning of motherhood, of awe, of endless learning.
She grew beside my becoming.

From her earliest days she carried calm strength, the kind that notices rather than reacts.
She stood where others turned away, listening before deciding, steadying those who lost their balance.
Through laughter, through challenge, she never stopped loving.
She gives space where it’s needed, grace where it’s rare, and courage where it’s called for.

She has worn many titles, student, friend, wife, officer, mother of three, sister, daughter and in each one she has remained herself:
brave, intuitive, fair, and radiant with a “Lovely” rhythm of her very own.
She faces danger for strangers, then returns home to teenagers who see what perseverance looks like.
She writes me notes that still sound like the child who used to pick me dandelions from anywhere.
Time has moved too quickly, but love has never aged.

So today, the celebration is not only for the woman she’s become,
but for the light she’s kept alive in every role she’s taken on.

“At forty, she doesn’t chase approval, she lives in the peace of knowing herself.”

“Forty Flames”

Forty flames now dancing,
each one shining true
patience, laughter, courage,
the love that carries through.

A daughter first, then leader,
a mother brave and kind,
a heart that holds its center
while giving space to find.

She meets the world with open hands,
with duty and with grace,
her spirit builds a safer path
for every life she’ll face.

So here’s to forty circles, round
the sun that lights her way,
may every dawn reflect the truth
she’s loved in every day.

-Kerri-Elizabeth- (Always a Mom first)
Tomorrow, November opens wide again, carrying her light forward, reminding us that renewal is never finished, it only changes form.

25 thoughts on “Brandee’s 40th Flame”

  1. This is truly beautiful, Kerri. Every line carries warmth, strength, and the kind of love that doesn’t fade with time.
    The way you’ve described her — steady, brave, and full of grace — paints a picture of someone who not only lives with purpose but also inspires it in others.
    “Renewal is never finished, it only changes form” — that line really stayed with me. Thank you for sharing something so full of heart and light. 🌹@Neel

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    • Thank you that means the world to me she is my oldest and some say not to have favorites but she’s my favorite, because she is so loyal and loving and no matter what life brings she NEVER turns on her mom , she doesn’t blame or shame , she finds her own growth path through and understands we all do our best and although we impact one another she allows growth and gives time to understand and see more, she’s the most brave and courageous woman I’ve ever known. She is fully HER and has taught me so much ! What an honor to be her MOM!

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      • That’s truly beautiful to hear, Kerri. The bond you share with your daughter sounds rare and incredibly strong — built on understanding, respect, and unconditional love.
        It’s amazing to see how she reflects your strength and heart too. You’ve clearly raised someone remarkable, and that says a lot about the kind of mom you are. 🌿

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        • Thank you 😊 I appreciate your time to stop and give energy to such a beautiful day and time and I appreciate the kindness , have a wonderful weekend and thank you for your support here. I look forward to continuing to read your blessings as well. What beautiful insights and wisdom.

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  4. What a profoundly moving tribute! 💛 Your words capture not just the milestones of forty years, but the depth, grace, and quiet strength that define a life well-lived. The way you weave love, resilience, and celebration of her spirit into every line makes this piece both tender and inspiring. Truly, a beautiful homage to the woman she has become and the light she continues to share with the world.

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  6. “Time has moved too quickly, but love has never aged.” How absolutely beautiful. Your daughter is stunning and a true reflection of the love she receives from you and your family. What a wonderful tribute to your birthday girl! ❤️

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