Every year as I reach my birthday, I pause to reflect on my good fortune. For my entire life so far, I have enjoyed good health. Hospital visits marked the birth of my children. My children and grandchildren live their lives free of lengthy hospital visits. In today’s world with so many diagnosed health issues and risks, I feel blessed to be free of that heartache and do not take it for granted. I pause to say thank you to the cosmos for these gifts. I also bless everyday with my husband as we spend our final years in a mild climate near beaches, pools, and lakes. My writing has brought me joy, as well as disappointment in that it’s hard to see one’s work be virtually ignored. But I have remained true to my craft and not pandered to the tastes of the masses. There is more to accomplishment than riches, my work has been recognized through awards and contests. And so I am nearly finished with my third novel and have possibly two more. Just because I can, so why not?
Sending love to all of the people who have influenced my life for the better and for those who made me better by challenging me. To rise above negativity and learn from it is a lesson that lasts all life long. And so I am still learning how to preserve my integrity, slough off the barbs, and remain joyful.
I am also blessed with loving children who enjoy coming to visit and check in just to talk or to see our furry kids on FaceTime (haha, you know who I’m talking about). Yes, life is good and has been good although there have been some bumps in the road–no one gets away without having bumps. Yes, life is good and I know how fortunate I am to be able to say that.
