Birthday of a blog

When I was 10-years old, the thought of turning 52-years-old never entered my mind.  The following year, the idea became a mild obsession.

Apparently, it is common for girls to believe they will die at the same age as their mothers.  My mother died at age 51 when I was 11 years old.  In my mind, I would do the same.  I was wrong.  Today is my 52nd birthday.

I’ve lived my life much like my mother.    I grew up, I went to college, I got a job, I got married, and then I left the working world to raise my children full time.   Now, my children are grown and suddenly I have lost my purpose.  My daily life has changed.

I am no longer needed as their chauffeur, clothes shopper, cook, laundry coordinator, teacher conference representative, appointment setter or birthday party planner.   At 52, I am faced with finding a new job, a new purpose.  And since I didn’t get the chance to see what my mother would have done, I am left without a road map.

So I ask myself, what am I good at?

I’ve been known to tell a good story.  They sound very Forrest Gumpy since they usually start with, “my mama always said.”

I am also good at offering advice to my children, husband and friends.  Once a friend even compared me to the Dalhi Lama.  (Most fun compliment ever.)

Additionally, I am proficient at complaining.  The heat, the cold, the wait, the attitude, someone driving too slow, someone driving too fast, texting habits, bad food…  complaining is my specialty. 

And finally, I am a good writer.  Of letters that is… the old-fashioned ones that are hand delivered by the mailman.  

My family and friends have often encouraged me to write a book.  I have appreciated the suggestion since they must believe I have a reason to write one but it’s far too intimidating.  Since writing a book is out, they have encouraged me to write a blog.

Therefore, to commemorate the day I thought I would never see, I am stepping out of my box and starting a blog filled with what I do best...  looking at life and putting in my two cents; sharing the morals of “my” stories; and complaining about the things that bother me most (aka, bees in my bonnet). Happy Birthday blog!

Oh yes, I have another talent … the EtchASketch.

Me stepping out of my box