What an amazing summer 2024, I had no idea turning 50 could be so much fun. I loved Saint Tropez, France when visiting eight months pregnant with my daughter. The world felt alive and overwhelming, motherhood at 30 was about to change my world. Now at 50, I willingly let the local photographer talk me into a photoshoot in front of the beach club restaurant with an audience. Ready to celebrate me now, I laughed as I posed and felt grateful for being back in a place so beautiful with my 19 year old daughter to celebrate how well it all turned out. Aging is steps toward wisdom and gratitude for health, opportunities and successes. I felt many emotions this sunny beach day, Astin watched with eyes wide open…mom is happy and no one could take that moment away!
The slower paced culture and pure food on the trip are reminders the little things count, if you want to age with grace, practice wellness. I was teased as a child for saying I didn’t like McDonald’s. I tasted chemicals and wanted my mom to cook for me, even when in high school and traveling for sports. She prepared fresh cooked food; I still refuse to eat fast food. I knew to trust my instinct despite the teasing, thanks “Super Size Me” for validating my McDonald’s concerns. Wellness is a practice and mindset. God gives an inner compass to show the way when you slow down to listen. During this incredible evening out in France, I noticed the shared beauty of my entree and matching skirt. Simple things bring joy.
Time and money are endless when trying to fight the process, age happens regardless of the fight. I enjoy the dance of playing with make-up, outfits and beauty routines to mentally feel ahead of the game. Yet, 50 brings a new chapter of grace and embracing the deeper beauty found in self acceptance and gratitude. Age is a powerful thing, mind over matter allows life to flow in your favor when you realize just how much thoughts shape happiness. Each day brings a new opportunity to see the good this life offers when we focus on the deeper meaning of life, choosing love over fear. Thanks God for this amazing new chapter in life. Returning to Carmel refreshed and full of anticipation for what is yet to come, deep appreciation surfaces for how life as a mother has softened my spirit. May age be a blessing for how much we each overcome and have to celebrate in this beautiful life.