Half Century

OK, I guess that having a "big" birthday, as one friend called it, deserves some sort of mention.

I turned 50 earlier this week.

*I don't lie about my age, unless its because I can't remember how old I am.
*I don't feel embarrassed to admit I color my hair.
*I do not eat prunes.
*I don't wear support hose.
*I am not wrinkled and drying up.
*I am not half-way to the grave.
*I don't use my body as an excuse not to use my body.
*I am not planning my retirement.

*I do enjoy the confidence that comes with being 50.
*I do color my hair.
*I eat what I want.
*I HATE panty hose!
*I want wrinkles--I want them to be around my eyes and mouth from laughing and smiling.
*I am very much alive and breathing--and living.
*I go to the gym because I LIKE it.
*I want to teach for as long as I can...I am looking forward to 15 or 16 more years.

These 50 years are the sum total of good times, and hard times. There have been tears, but more laughter. They have defined who I am and how I live my life. 50 is just fine.