Birthweek Celebration!

This year, it was a birthweek celebration vs. a mere birthday (a week is reasonable given that I'm already halfway through my life expectancy). Rich definitely stepped up his game this year- a stay at our family's favorite staycation getaway (with plenty of upgrades thanks to a dear friend who works there), a delicious family dinner and best of all- a swim with some dolphins!

Seriously, I've been waiting about thirty years for this moment! When this resort first opened as a Hyatt back in the 80s, I swore one day I would swim with the dolphins there. But of course, back then...the cost seemed overly indulgent and I've long been conflicted about dolphins being held in captivity for human entertainment. (I still can't defend that last issue. We were told that the dolphins there have hit their 30s, 40s and older vs those in the wild, who average 12-13 years. But if you were to ask any human if they'd rather live 40-50 years in captivity performing for food, or 12-13 years wild but 'free,' I think most of us would choose freedom,)

I admit that I cast aside those concerns and had a fabulous time with Ryan (who yes, was included because Rich knew I'd never want to do it without him). We swam, touched and played with four different dolphins for about 45 minutes. I loved the belly rubs!

The view from our room in the Palace Tower

My nephew surprised us with poolside 'birthday smoothies' 

The family dinner

I got many wonderful gifts, but this one from my friend Y I had to share because it's so unique- a subscription to a monthly gift box stuffed with all things running related! I love it! Motivation in a box!

Today is my actual birthday and although Rich has work twelve hours, he left me a slice of my favorite dessert and a really good running hat I've been wanting (that costs more than most of my clothes). ;-) So I feel very feted and appreciated this year, and will definitely have to step up my game next year for Rich! Yikes!

The last year of my life? It's been interesting. Definitely good in that I'm alive, healthy, fed, clothed, sheltered and loved. I'm forever grateful for these things and never take them for granted. So in the big picture, the 41st year of my life definitely goes under the 'good' column.

There were also a few unique challenges I've never faced before...like being in a classroom daily. That was...tough. Trying to nurture 24 kids (and not even as the full time, certified teacher)? Overwhelming. Upside- I respect teachers even more than before. No lip service here, they are selfless rock stars.

I've also been nursing a chronic injury for a solid year. Is this what aging is all about? Learning to live with newly-formed limitations? I wake up every day with a left ankle that is stiff as a board, and aches nearly every time I run. (Yes, yes...if I stopped running completely it would probably heal faster. But um, that's the lesson to be learned here for me. Upside? Appreciating that I'm still mobile and alive, regardless of a minor injury.  

I've always heard the expression "You can't please everybody," But it never really applied, you know? I feel like I've more or less managed to get along with most people I've met, until this last year. Can we say uncomfortable? Good Lord. Glad it's over, or mostly over. It's not a quick or easy process of liberating my mind/life of two very toxic personalities, but the cost (there is always collateral damage) will be worth it in the long run.

I have no complaints about my last year. There were countless lessons learned, and a strengthening of my commitment to always learn, always improve. I'm optimistic about the future. If I have any hopes for my next trip around the sun?

• That my parents and family remain healthy and happy 
• That I can find another part-time job that I like 
• For our family to go to Dubai with my parents
• For our lanai to not look like a dilapidated outhouse/shed from the 60s (renovation scheduled for end of the year butIwon'tholdmybreath)
• My Achilles stops acting like a drama queen and gets better

If my 42nd year on Earth goes as planned, I'll be a happy old woman.