On Turning 44
It's my birthday today. I had a nice trail run this morning, the house was festively decorated when I returned, Chris offered to chaperon the four-year-old at a birthday party for me this afternoon [the best gift EVER], while the older boys and I shopped at REI and a running store. It's been a good day.
[Mom, Dad and me on my 1st birthday. 1967]
In my 44th year, I lost my grandmother, completed the Triple Trail Challenge, attended my 25th high school reunion, celebrated my 20th wedding anniversary, tweaked some relationships, felt what it's like to be bullied as an adult, had pneumonia for the first time in my life, and am reminded of the importance of living in the moment, thanks to my friend Em.
[Mom and me on my 1st birthday. 1967]
In the past 12 months I've learned...
... to trust my instincts [more than I already did] and not ignore multiple red flags that flutter and shake right in front of my face.
... closure and peace is best achieved privately.
... bullying feels like someone is squeezing the back of your neck with sharp, bony fingers and forcing you to walk down a path, not of your choosing, while you whimper.
... if someone's not well-liked, there's usually a good reason for it. Life's not a popularity contest, but there's a difference between having a funny walk, and walking around while swinging a stick.
... relationships, both old and new, family members and non-family members, continue to intrigue me. The cream consistently rises to the top.
... that my handsome husband is okay being the lust of my life versus the love of my life. How frickin awesome is that? I think that makes him the love of my life, for sure.
... I have no real problems and am one hell of a lucky woman.
[My second birthday. 1968]
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My friend, Em, is the mother to a sweet, seven-year-old boy. He was diagnosed with brain cancer in early February. his treasured family is battling the disease with strength, courage, determination, and the knowledge that they will WIN the fight. Please join Chris, the boys and me in sending healing thoughts, prayers, and an abundance of good juju to Em, her husband and their son, Super T. She's been telling me to live in the moment, enjoy the simple gifts each day offers, and smile and laugh as much as possible. She's preachin' good, people. Let's listen to her!