Yesterday I celebrated my 59th birthday and thought “whew, those first 58 years went by fast”.

I think back on friends and family who didn’t see their 59th birthday and realize that the greatest gift we get is waking up each day, a fresh slate.  And as I mark my 59th year, I’ve decided instead of 59 candles (which face it – is a fire hazard) I’m going to share 59 things that make me happy, in random order (and over the next few weeks so I don’t create a novel…..)

First thing: Since I retired, just a few months before my 58th birthday, I’ve slowed down and am more aware and observant of things around me. A few weeks back, while floating in the pool at my stepmom’s house, I looked towards the sun and clouds and saw a rainbow, inverted so that it looked like a big smile.  I asked her if she saw it, she did not.  I took off my glasses – and though near-sighted, I could still see it.  It lasted for quite a while, regardless of where I floated.  I like to think it was my Dad sending me that rainbow.  Rainbows have always been one of my happy things. I wish I had a picture to share with you, but the picture in my mind is there forever.  Just because I was paying attention.

Second Thing: Just the other day, Spence and I were at an amazing place, having a couple of cold Shiner Bock and enjoying beautiful waterfalls.  I looked down and saw the coolest thing and shot this video.  At first I thought it was a piece of neon colored yarn…..

Stay tuned, 57 more things to come…..