“Just 'cause there's snow on the roof doesn't mean there's not a fire inside.” ― Bonnie Hunt

I saw a sign once that said, "Age doesn't really matter unless you're a cheese." That thought has popped back into my mind repeatedly over the last week as February 2nd inched closer and closer and I processed growing older but definitely better.

Hopping out of bed on my birthday morning, I admittedly felt a tinge of sadness. I live on the other side of the world, and this birthday would not be spent with my family. There would be no traditional dinner at a local eatery. I was going to begin my birthday 8 hours before my older brother, first at last!   As I got dressed while watching my guilty pleasure since 1989, The Bold and the Beautiful, I noticed my knees seemed to crack a little louder when I stooped to pick something up. I caught a glimpse of the sliver sparkles in my hair and swear they seemed to be a little more intense and plentiful (Camryn once told me my grey hair reminded her of Easter basket grass...smh.), but undaunted I touched up my curls so they wouldn't go awry and carried on. I wasn't sure how it was going to turn out, but I headed to work ready to embrace 45 and make it a great day.  

It was a typical day at ACA. MAP testing was on the schedule to complete before the end of the day, and we had a late afternoon assembly. I was going to be busy as usual, but it was definitely starting on a good note. Some teachers ordered my favorite chai latte for me, and of course, I couldn't pass up the chance to add a scrumptious mushroom, egg and swiss croissant to go along with it, the breakfast fit for a birthday queen. When I strolled down the halls I enjoyed the many happy birthday shouts from the students as they passed. I even got a full rendition of "Happy Birthday" sung first in English then Arabic when I entered one 9th grade class to start their tests. I am sure they saw every one of my teeth when I smiled. And it got better. As I worked my way to the stage during the awards ceremony, I was serenaded again this time by the entire school...what a rush!!!! The girls decorated my office and brought me some of my favorite things, none of which I needed, but all of which I thoroughly enjoyed (cookie cake, cheese stuffed bites, and cupcakes with 18 sitting atop two). Although I had to push past a great annoyance that threatened to steal all my joy midway through the day, I had to remember that I wasn't cheese and I was going to celebrate this day of growing a year older. Yes, I was turning 45, feeling 18 in my head, and had a pep in my step.

I ended the day with good food, blueberry shisha, a whole lot of laughter and welcomed conversation that swerved waaaay too far to the left, and I loved it!!! It was definitely a GREAT day. Life is good. I am smiling. I still have my teeth, and I am ready to set the world ablaze because age doesn't matter when you're having the time of your life.

PS - I put in my earbuds and actually remembered to turn on the music today!!! There is hope for me!