Birthdays are markers of another year we have contributed (hopefully good) to the world. Some birthdays signify milestones or rites of passage. Some we would rather ignore or forget. They are just a number you might say.

I remember when I turned 10, I thought it more mature to say I was a “decade” old. At that time, wanting to project maturity was something that was important to me. Then the usual 13, 16, 18, 21, and so on… had their perceived significance. This year, I have ushered in the “50” mark and now I can say I have acheived a “half century”. Unlike when I was ten, this term makes me sound more senior than I feel. It will be a year of reinvention, new beginnings and gratitude and I look forward to what experiences are ahead.

Special thanks to my young budding photographer, Carley Smith.