I was talking with my dad recently about meeting for lunch to celebrate my 50th birthday in two weeks. He was reluctant to mention which birthday it is. It’s really weird saying it out loud… “I’m turning 50 years old.” (I think my parents are also having a difficult time reconciling the fact that their ‘Baby’ is that old.)
I don’t feel 50, I certainly don’t act 50. I do suspect that I look 50. I don’t know how to explain it. It seems like it should be a really big deal, but it merely seems very strange. I’m counting down the days… 14 more… but I’m not sure if it won’t all be just a huge let down.
Will I wake up that morning feeling vastly different? Will I have some sort of epic epiphany? Suddenly overnight I’ll know the Meaning of Life, and have a lighted path to my destiny. Or will it be another lazy morning filled with cat litter and doggie kibble?
Hubs cashed in some flyer miles to get me a roundtrip airline ticket to hang with my College Kid on that weekend. I’m more excited about spending time with her for an adventure, than that it’s because of my birthday. (We’re headed to Knoxville, TN to participate in the Color Me Rad 5k run.)
A few years ago, I don’t know if I would’ve even wanted to participate in a 5K race, let alone one where strangers pelted me with colored powder. Maybe beginning my second half century has freed me to be more adventurous.
Who knows though, after my actual birthday, I may be reduced to a tottering, old, cat lady waiting by the mailbox for my AARP membership card. Spending my days shopping for comfortable, yet butt-ugly shoes, and arguing with cashiers that I do indeed qualify for the senior discount… $5 is $5 dammit!
I’m wavering between excitement and apprehension. I’m either waiting on Nirvana or Medicaid.
Thin spiral notebook 
Having experienced this particular birthday recently, I find I feel the same (still tired LOL). Hope you and the “college kid” have an awesome time!!!!
LikeLike
I think it’s most important that you feel young…which you do! And a color run sounds sooo fun!!!
LikeLike
I’m guessing it’ll be another day of cat litter and doggie kibble. 🙂
I have many friends who have done the Color Me Rad 5K and they all say it’s one of the best experiences they’ve ever had. You’ll have a great time, especially since you’re doing it with your daughter.
Also, you’re not going to K-ville for Thanksgiving, are you? If you are, let me know and we can meet at Turkey Creek. 🙂
LikeLike
Mine is two months away, but you have made me think about it in a different way (or maybe think about it at all LOL).
LikeLike
i’m so gonna get a tattoo that says “nirvana or medicaid”. you’ll rock 50, as you do. and spending the weekend w: college kid AND getting colored up??? >AARP discounts. xo.
LikeLike
Happy Early Birthday! I hope you have a marvelous time! I also believe it is very dangerous to act your age…
LikeLike
The title and the last line together qualify this post for epic status. And happy happy Nirvana Medicaid birthday. (Who says you can’t have your cake and eat it too?)
LikeLike
I promise you won’t feel any older. And no, I don’t think you look 50, at least from the pictures I’ve seen. It’s all in how old you think you are. I’ve heard people much younger than I am complain about how old they are. Many think they are older than I am. Love it!
LikeLike
Seems you’re embracing life, regardless of your age, be it 20 or 50. That’s admirable and inspiring. And that photo of that cat is glorious. Happy early birthday!
LikeLike
Happy Early birthday Tara! Hope you have an awesome time with the College Kid.
Love your kitty. Such a pretty face 🙂
LikeLike