I am 50 today!

Woo hoo! Today is my 50th birthday. Can't believe I have reached the BIG 5-0 Milestone. I can't say that I feel 50, at least not today. But then again what is 50 suppose to feel like?

I took the day off from work after going back and forth on whether I should or not. I don't ever recall taking a vacation day for my birthday. So today was a first in putting me first and taking the day off.

I intend to focus on me today. I slept in a little later this morning. I opened the bedroom door and was surprised to see that my husband and son decorated our family room and kitchen with streamers and decorations. This was such a surprise and so sweet of them. They both left me some real cute cards as well.

I had some yogurt for breakfast and then headed out for a walk with my dog, Bella. It was very mindy and rainy misty when we left. Bella looked up at me as if to say, "Hey, I didn't sign up for a walk in the rain!" HaHa. But on we went for about 30 minutes. I turned up the volume on my ipod and put one foot in front of the other. It was invigorating walking in the light rain in the middle of the morning. I usually envy the women who could walk and exercise during the day while I am at work. Today I was able to walk in their shoes.

I headed out and did some shopping for me at the fairly new Water's Creek Shopping area in Allen, TX. I love this new shopping area which is not your typical shopping center. It is like a little village complete with waterfalls, rock landscapes and pond. My first stop was at the Black and White Market store where I bought the really cute black and white animal print sweater that they are featuring in their ads. I can't wait to wear it. Next I headed over to Chico's and bought several tops and shirts. Shopping time was cut short so I could get to my 1:00 massage appt.

I got to Massage Wow, Allen, TX with time to spare for my 90 minute massage. Massage Wow is also fairly new and owned by Chiro Spa which is located next door. Massage Wow is running a special which includes a 90 minute massage and a footbath for just $39.95. This is such a bargain! Adrienne was my massage therapist and she was awesome. She applied just the right pressure and worked out my stress. I actually fell asleep on the table. I couldn't believe it but it was so relaxing and the ultimate treat to myself on my birthday.

So here I am now in Starbucks typing this blog. I am sitting in a big comfy chair with my venti unsweetened black iced tea. There is upbeat but soothing music playing in the background. I am feeling the creative juices flowing. I have not been blogging as often as I intended to. Life just gets in the way. Work, family, and other obligations always seem to take precedence over creative time. I want to change this going forward and spend more time on creative pursuits as well as getting back in shape.

Birthday wishes are kind of like New Year's resolutions. We start out with great intentions and sometimes face challenges in keeping these resolutions. I have yet to compile my list of wishes for my next 50 years but they will be focused on love, family, health, travel, and giving back.

Tonight we are going to our favorite Italian restaurant, Bugatti's, located in Dallas, TX. My husband and I got engaged there, had our rehearsal dinner there, celebrated my husband's 50th there with firends and family earlier this year in January and celebrate most of our special times there. I look forward to some great food, some fine wine and good time with my husband and son. Spending time together means more than any gift I could receive.

I have much to be thankful for on my 50th birthday. I have people who love me and who I love. I am fairly healthy. I have 2 dogs who bring me joy. I have a career I love at Fortune company. I have been blessed and Thank God everyday for the life that I live.