AACK! ANOTHER BIRTHDAY. How does this keep happening? How do I keep getting older and older? Oh, yeah. By still being here and alive, that's how. So the wrinkles keep coming, along with aches and pains I never had when I was a sweet young thing. And, oh, no, here comes the dreaded turkey neck. And dry skin. Ick. Just. Ick.
     I have often wished we could stay looking about thirty right up until it's time to move on to the next great adventure, but that's not how it works. And really, maybe that's for the best. Aging is a reminder that life is short, that we all have an expiration date. It's a reminder that time is passing, that we can't take a moment for granted, that we need to wise with however much we're given and become all God wants us to become, to appreciate the gift of life. And to remember there is a life after this and be prepared to meet our maker. And to be grateful to still be here. To live to an old age is a privilege, and if we're still here, we're here for a reason.
     Every year brings a blessing - a new member either marrying into or born into the family, a new friend, a new hobby, a new book to read. And write! And now, with the pandemic easing up, a chance to travel. So I'm getting wrinkles. So what?
      I think about Betty White, the actress. She was the cutest little old lady ever and everyone loved her because she was so positive and happy and kindhearted. I don't think I ever heard anyone ever say, "Betty White, what an old bat." Because who cared that she was old.? Her smile was timeless.
     So, as I start turning into a little old lady, here's what I'm telling myself when I look in the mirror and am tempted to lament the loss of my brown hair and that dewy, young skin: "Be Betty White. Be content with where you are in life and live it to the fullest."
     Happy birthday to me!

     BIG LOVE DAY is almost here. Little Sheila has been celebrating already, delivering heart shaped cookies around the neighborhood. Last night we hae two other couples coming over to join us for fun and games. As you can see by the picture above, I was ready. I had a little Valentine quiz for everyone and dollar store party favors for the boys. The adorable heart bath bombs are from F.R.O.G. Soap, right here in my home town of Bremerton, where you can find all manner of eco-friendly soaps and goodies. I also had supplies for our men to make us Valentine cards. You will notice there's no glue, no scissors, no lace... nothing complicated. Just colored paper and stickers. The guys were able to handle that. And they did! Below is Gerhardt's work of art. What a clever boy he is. :)
     I hope, whether you are happily in a relationship or on your own, you can find a way to make some fun this Valentine's Day, either by gathering with girlfriends, delivering treats to the neighbors, or enjoying a romantic evening with that special person. Love is in the air. Let's all catch some!