Hello friends!

​Well, I made it! 

Never in MY wildest dreams did I think I'd see 50! Which, I suppose sounds a little pessimistic, to say the least, but really, it was more of a "that's soooooooo far away! I'll be a dinosaur!" 
But here I am.  And glad of it!  As of Sunday when I was 49 going on 50 (my birthday was yesterday), I was 
     *smarter (at least I think so - definitely more common sense, anyway!)
     *stronger
     *if not physically healthier, much, much mentally healthier
     *much more willing to take risks
     *happier, and
     *more at peace with the world. 

I've lost people that I've dearly loved, but have learned and thrived because of the time they were in my life. Because of them, because of mistakes I've made, decisions that didn't go the way I thought they would, but turned out for the better in the long run and learning a to sometimes play the long game (although patience will never be a strength!), I've learned to be happy, to be content and to love the little things. 

I've also learned that that ISN'T settling.
Not in the least. It's the essence of life.
Of happiness.
And what makes you get out of bed in the morning. 
Knowing how happy the dog is going to be when you give her her morning treat. 
Watching the sunflowers bloom where they were planted.
Seeing a stranger smile at something you've created.
Hearing your kids tell you they love you, even when you know you've made mistakes and mis-steps while trying to be a good parent.  
Finding a partner that isn't perfect, and doesn't expect you to be perfect but you know you're perfect for each other. 

This is what 50 years has taught me and this is what I celebrate!

At your service,
​Rev. Poppy