IT'S OFFICIAL!

Today I am officially old.

It’s my 66th birthday, so I’m eligible to draw my State Pension and apply for my free bus pass. I am celebrating (yes, really) that I am no longer just a Senior Citizen but now also an OAP - Old Age Pensioner!

As it’s such an auspicious day, I am in reflective mode. My husband suggested that my life is pretty much perfect right now, and I agree with him. Since turning 60, I’ve sorted out what I want, and what I don’t want, and successfully worked out the how, what, where, when and why that provides joy and fulfilment to my current existence.

It’s true that I can’t always align what I feel inside with my reflection in the mirror but I’m fit and healthy and thankful that I love the nourishing food that keeps me this way. I’m also truly grateful for my wonderful friends around the world - you know who you are - my family, the work I do and my ability to always be curious.

It wasn’t always this way - believe me. My late teens and twenties were pretty awful and I never, ever want to repeat how I felt back then. Even some of my menopausal years weren’t hugely joyful. But, it’s onwards and upwards, with a renewed sense of purpose and its accompanying freedom that has come later to me than some.

So here’s the thing: on the 66th anniversary of my coming into the world, I want to say a HUGE thank you to you all for taking the time to read my musings. Your comments, via the Substack app and personal email, are very precious. My hope is that you will continue to converse with me through the ups and downs of life, as we continue the journey of self-discovery and mutual benefit together.