Copy-cat.

There are many people who don't share my views on this subject, so I thought I might shed some light on why I feel the way I do.

To me, the greatest compliment I am given is when someone likes something that I have enough to want it themselves. While there are those who feel very protective of things of value to them, such as names, important dates, clothing ideas, etc., I love sharing these things with others who value them as highly as I do. Sharing these things with those around me brings such joy, it saddens me that some like to keep them to themselves but I try to be understanding of alternate points of view.

My extended family shares names extensively. I absolutely love it. There are many Davids, Lauras, Austins, Elnas, Waynes, Luellas, Joannes, and the list could go on. What a marvelous compliment when your name is loved enough by family to be shared - even with many of your same generation. What a special thing to share with those around you! I have always loved my name, but until recently there have not been an abundance of Audreys around. My uncle married a woman named Audry several years ago and we have shared the legacy together. However, my second cousin (and one of my very best friends) named her daughter after me about a year and a half ago. I was overjoyed! Then in the last month or so, my dad's cousin and his wife had a baby and named her Audrey because they loved my name. What a treat! We have used family names for our children as well. I hope that all those that have names shared with others can look to the fine examples that have come before them and try to live up to the name they have been given. Additionally, I hope they strive hard to set their own pattern of excellence to be followed by any future generations that may share their name.

My husband and I share our wedding anniversary with loved ones as well. Our anniversary is the same day as my parents and the same day as my cousin Marian and her husband Chad. We also happen to share our anniversary with the world as they celebrate Valentine's Day. Today, my anniversary, is a delightful chance to remember the day I was married and why marriage is so vital and valuable to society as a whole. This morning I hollered up and down the stairs with my parents as we wished each other a happy anniversary. What wonderful blessings their marriage has brought into my life and I am glad every year to celebrate with them. And we thought getting married on Valentine's Day was such a great idea that we did it ourselves. I hope many decide to join us in the coming years!

I feel the same way about clothing. Actually, my mom and sisters and I have so many of the same clothes that we often make phone calls to confirm that we are not going to wear the same outfit to the same function. Even when we do accidentally wear the same thing, it doesn't bother me a bit. I am proud to have sisters and a mom who share my sense of fashion.

I can see how others want to make a unique statement in life and if that is what is important to them, good for them. But I hope to continue travelling through life sharing my most valuable ideas and possessions with those whom I love, and hope that they enjoy it as much as I do.