I celebrated my birthday yesterday….36 years…not a milestone decade or anything, but nonetheless, another year older. I spend my days working on a dementia unit in a long term care facility with 80 and 90 year olds so obviously, I know 36 is not that old in age. The reality, though, is that none of us know how many years we are promised in this life. As I watch my children grow older and think of the things I want to accomplish like publish a novel, swim with dolphins, visit the Philippines again, become a nursing home administrator….then 36 starts to feel old.
My birthday itself was a fun day. Since I have been following the guidelines in Lyn-Genet Recitas “The Plan,” I have a better handle on the foods that my body can handle. Despite food intolerances, I was able to indulge in birthday treats with no major repercussions except for a chocolate buzz that delayed my sleep some, but so worth it!
A cranberry scone from my favorite gluten free bakery, Organic Bliss, and a latte from Starbucks made with coconut milk…yum!
A “Miracle Tart” chocolate tart made by Hail Merry with virgin coconut oil, Fair Trade cocoa, and maple syrup in an almond flour crust with So Delicious Cashew Milk cappuccino non-dairy ice cream topped with Trader Joe’s sunflower seed butter…so, so, so very good.
The best part of my birthday? Being with family and talking with friends who truly care about me and genuinely wished me a happy birthday. My son made me this unique Lego frame for my birthday. Homemade gifts are the best.
So, thoughts on my birthday?? God has been good. He has blessed me with wonderful family and friends, and He continues to use my current circumstances to prepare me for what is yet to come. Birthdays are a great time to reflect on all that has been accomplished and dream of all that is yet to come.
How about you? How do you view birthdays and getting older?