Next Wednesday is my 49th birthday. I’ve always been a big fan of celebrating birthdays, even more so after surviving a heart attack at 31. I feel fortunate for every year I get to spend in this body, even as it ages. The aches, pains, and gray hairs are signs of a life lived fully and wholeheartedly.
When I worked in the corporate world, I took the day off if my birthday fell on a weekday. Now that I’m my own boss, I decide what work I do (if any) on my big day. This year, I’ll teach my regular Wednesday yoga class, but I’ll also make time for a hike with the dogs in place of my usual weekly visit to the gym and a birthday dinner at one of my favorite restaurants.
September is my favorite month of the year, and I celebrate the entire month. In addition to plans for my actual birthday, I’m scheduled to get a massage, have dinner with family, invite friends over to enjoy drinks on the deck, attend a SUP yoga class, go to Florida for a few days for a concert with my bestie, go camping twice, catch a soccer game, and attend a Candelight concert. It’s going to be a great month!
I often forget how old I am and occasionally slip up, telling someone I’m 38 instead of 48 when they ask. I catch myself when I see the puzzled look on their face. While there are lots of things that aren’t fun about being on the verge of 50, I remind myself that aging is better than the alternative.
I’ve started making a list of things I’d like to do when I turn 50, and I’d love your help adding to it. My fellow Virgos can probably relate to the desire to make a list. I’m hoping to have 50 items that are challenging but doable. I want to balance reason with dreaming big.
I already have several ideas, and many have multiples of five attached (e.g., attend 50 yoga classes, go to five concerts). I’d like my list to include a mix of things that support physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. I love to travel, so I’m already cooking up some great trips for next year. I like learning new things, so I’m not afraid to add something to the list that I’ve never done before.
If you have an idea for my list, comment on this post. I’d love your help in creating a fun 50th year that challenges me and supports my well-being. Thanks in advance for your help!