Another year older

I was fortunate to celebrate a birthday this week. I like celebrating each one as the alternative is worse. It was a lovely day spent with family and friends. A bonus was my niece’s twins being born and I’m pleased to report they are ok for now. There have been many prayers and good wishes expressed for their health and welfare.

Another birthday got me thinking about what I have learned this year and the new experiences that came my way whether planned or not.

I have learned that no matter how hard I work there is always more to do and my expectations always seem to exceed my output. Others tell me I’m doing a good job but I’m sure I can always do better.

A driving holiday can still be fun even if you are sick with pneumonia. Thank goodness for a great friend and lovely sister. We had a really good time and would all do it again.

Don’t take your loved ones for granted. Listen to what they say, offer advice if they ask for it and support them in whatever they do.

Weddings are wonderful especially when you can marry your son and his new bride. Not many people can say they have done that.

I have learned to treasure time with my Mum and Dad. I have watched my Mum struggle with the effects of Alzheimer’s disease and the effect that has had on my Dads health. It was a sobering time having to see my Mum go into a home and my Dad accept help from support services none of hoped he would ever need.

Life is precious and our children and families are a gift. I have the best family in the world.

Retirement is still a long way away but now there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Less than ten years and six months to go but whose counting.

The best birthday present you can get is dinosaur teeth for my dinosaur garden. Apparently I have one in my back yard, according to by granddaughter, and now I have some dinosaur teeth to add to the collection of rocks there (thanks Sophie).

If you bring the washing in throw it in the dryer for 15 minutes before you put it away and you won’t need to iron (I hate ironing).

Now I wonder what I’ll learn next year?