Oh my goodness, celebrating a milestone birthday certainly disrupted all the regular day to day stuff in my life, bringing two weeks of travel for multiple gatherings, yes multiple cakes, and so much fun, but not a single moment to jot down even a thought, never mind a blog post. But now, I’m back! Ready to look forward renewed and refreshed, and with a very full heart.

What is it about old friends that just feels like that heirloom ring you adored your whole childhood and now wear on your own finger? There is a shiny comfort that is fabulous and steady: comfy cozy as my grandson says when he tells me about his two favorite blankets. Familiar yes, but so much more, because it is your old friends who know all your flaws, who have witnessed your ridiculous moments and your grand achievements and even though the decades roll along, you are still 30 when you laugh and dance around together. I knew I needed to visit those peeps, and as luck would have it, I did just that. Along with seeing those faces, I walked on newly fallen leaves and peered across the dark rippling lake and drank in the scents of East Coast autumn, all the while chatting about all the things.

Being back in the North East was a tonic. I caught a glimpse of the me I was having trouble finding after our big move. Standing lakeside, I admired her bravery to leave much of what she loved behind, and by doing so, allowed myself a glimmer of excitement for what lies ahead. I thought, Let the reasons to start a new chapter grab my imagination once again, without fear, without constraints and negative self talk. It was if a merger manifested in my brain where before I only felt the separation. Sounds quite simple as I write today, but a month ago, unity felt like bridging the Grand Canyon. Can a birthday make you feel whole again? In my case, yes, it did, with the help of so many loves.

Part of my three-part birthday extravaganza coincided with a grand gathering of cousins. Meeting up with those who I have played with my entire existence, well, that is priceless, as was lunching with a woman who is nothing but grace and kindness. We spent a few hours talking about the lack of both those traits being exhibited by the current administration, as well as so much of their policies. Conversely, we nodded in agreement that we will still hold those ideals high, for that is how we were raised, and that is indeed the ethos of our family. I felt bathed in that kindness the whole of my visit with my extended family.

The good fortune I possess is not something I take for granted. Family has been the core of me from day one to this day. I adore being the matriarch of my own brood, and am beyond proud of their creative endeavors, their pivots, and the way they rise after a fall. To say that I am lucky in love is too simple, having been championed by a grand soul for decades is pure gold. Yes, good health too. Oh my goodness, the gratitude list is a grand one.

Crossing into a new decade felt daunting until I actually did. Thank you to all my family and friends who gathered to celebrate with me and those of you who reached out with cheer and wishes. I cherish you all, xxoo