How did this happen???

OR---how did I get this old??? This is a really big birthday for me. Like most of my friends this age, we all wonder how this happened. Weren't we 40 just a few years ago?? Well, maybe 50 but surely we aren't in our 70's---even 75!!! Yoweee!

We also are acutely aware of how lucky we are. Most of us are in reasonable health. Maybe we've had a few health scares but basically still pretty independent. Joe and I continue to enjoy friends, family, reading, writing, give a few workshops a year, travel a little, and even a little adventure at the casinos! Why live in Vegas if not??!! Life is certainly quieter---thank heaven. I hope not to complicate it---but knowing me that's not a promise.

I spent Saturday morning with two younger women friends. One challenged by "what now?" Now that the kids are grown and off to professional careers. Another challenged by incredible work stress---harassment, threat of discipline. It all takes me back to "then."

And given it's my birthday weekend I found myself in reflection---the days of pure joy---the days of incredible sorrow---the successes---the disappointments---the adventures. That's how I got this old. One day at a time.

The pleasure of now is the quieter days...the days to sit on the porch---look at the mountains---reflect---plan (whoops!)---and mostly to be mindful---to let it all be---to place it all in God's loving hands.

Let it be---place it all in God's loving hands.

Blessings-Penny