50

The year I turned 40, I did not celebrate. Dale flew away in March and 3 months later, I didn't really care about my birthday. A year later, I went to Reno with 3 friends to have a late celebration. At some point (I am really not sure when), I started thinking about turning 50 and getting excited. Partly because I liked thinking about the fun of wearing a red hat and purple dress. (Yes simple things excite me.)  

Sometime after I turned 45, I began to plan my party. Dancing was important. I decided to pick a song from each year, 1966-2016. Then I chose 10 to make sure were played and we played the others as we had time. I picked a place, one of my favorite restaurants has a great banquet room. Invitations, DJ, food, cake-- I loved planning it. 

I had a blast. I got to dance with my grandchildren and friends. I wore a purple dress and red hat. 

When Theresa flew in September, she was 3 months short of her 50th birthday. Dale was 1 month short of turning 48. And I lost my friend Dwaine when he was 36. Three important people in my life did not make it to 50. I have thought a lot about that in the last month. I am grateful for every day.

And I love telling people I am 50!

(I saw my doctor and I am feeling much better. Thank you everyone for taking care of me.)
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