monday's mulling: birthday

Today is my day to begin my next trip around the sun. 

I've always liked the phrase, “Another trip around the sun,” referring to celebrating birthdays. It reminds us of the preciousness of life and the opportunity we’ve been given to experience another day, let alone another year. As we celebrate birthdays, it’s important to take a moment to reflect on the past year, years before that, and the journey we’ve been on. They are a time to celebrate the passing of time, but we can also reflect and appreciate more opportunities to be, grow, and contribute.

This past weekend was a celebration. The Rod Stewart and Billy Joel concert took us to Cleveland. Thursday we stopped by Westlake to visit our kids and little grandson and told the kids to go to dinner without their little guy. The one-on-one time with our grandson was precious. He's 27 months and is a non-stop talker and non-stop little whirlwind. He has his opinions and Didi's negotiation skills got put to the test! But what a sweet little grandchild of mine and "I wuv you, Didi," melted my heart. The kids went to an Italian restaurant, brought back a piece of grape pie, put a candle in it, and sang Happy Birthday. A perfect, quiet family celebration.

We then headed to downtown Cleveland to spend the night. Friday morning we began our walk all around the town, stopped at Barrio for a mid-afternoon drink, and then met up with friends to go to the Billy Joel concert. And what a concert it was. Rod Stewart at 79 years - WOW! - still has his distinctive raspy voice and put on an energetic performance. Billy Joel, at 75 years - WOW WOW! His fingers flew up and down the piano keys (no arthritis for this guy) and his stage presence mesmerized the audience and everyone sang as he sang. I'll bet the people outside of Cleveland stadium heard a good concert as well.

I haven't hit my 70s...give me a few years. These two men show that age hasn't slowed them down and they're still sharing their talents and bringing joy to many. They are an inspiration for me to do the same in my own way.