What 49 Looks Like On Me

Tradition. I wish writing it felt as beautiful as when I hear the song in Fiddler on the Roof. For years I’ve shared around my birthday where I’m at in life and what I look like. I think in part to encourage you, and perhaps, to keep me accountable and encourage myself.

Each year that 40 faded and 50 has come into view, this little tradition gets harder. I’ve never taken a good picture, but egads, it’s getting harder to share. Weight gain, exhaustion, white hairs coming in, it is not a fun scene for someone who often thinks my college years were 15 years or so ago. Ahem, try almost 30.

Despite my vanity , God has been good to me in the last year, as He always is.

• Participated in a Christmas Boxed set with authors I’ve admired.

• Released You’re Amazing with our daughter, Hannah.

• Vacationed in Branson.

• Watched our son turn 20.

• Watched our daughter start high school.

• Watched our grandsons in Wisconsin turn one.

• Learned another grandchild is on the way.

• Attended great conferences that challenged and inspired my faith.

• Read amazing books.

• Lead a few Bible studies, participated in some, too!

• Heard hard and hopeful things as I prayed.

This year, there are things I believe are on the horizon that Lord, willing, I will witness:

• Our son turns 21, our daughter, 16.

• We will celebrate 23 years of marriage.

• Our grandsons turn 2, and the third grandchild will be born.

• Match Made in Heaven is a Christian romance that releases next month.

• Restoring Christmas re releases November 1.

• Anchored is in progress.

• You’re Brilliant is in progress.

• I’m getting a handle on the Curly Girl method.

I am also thinking about the next birthday, 5-0. My husband is NOT a birthday guy and I do like celebrations within reason. I’m considering doing something silly that brings together those that get me and who are down for middle-age Christian shenanigans. I have some ideas, but you’ll have to wait until next year!

As for the picture, I’ve been documenting my Curly Girl progress, so there’s that. This picture, though, it’s hard to share. I was on my second antibiotic trying to get rid of bronchitis, sinus infection, ear pain, and other fun things. Any time I have a little pain, my eyes just show it. The bags and deep circles can’t be covered, I’ve tried. I look pale and as if I’ve spent the month on the couch, which is actually what it’s been like. But, if I write about how we are all beautiful, amazing, and brilliant, well that truth must start with me.

I am 49.

I am going to celebrate that, and me!