My birthday was over a month ago – actually on May 3rd, and I turned 63. I’ve often pondered about my birthday – what I like about it, what I don’t, that I thought I’d let you in on a little secret.

You are only as old as you feel. I’m sure you’ve heard that before – but it’s true. I can’t believe that I’m 63. Hey only 2 more years and I’ll be able to be on Medicare. What a scary thought!

But being 63 and feeling 63 are 2 different things. First of all, I come from a long line of people who live way past their 80′s and 90′s. I also come from a long line of women, whose faces don’t show wrinkles until really late in life. Great! That should help me look a lot younger than my 63.

But why do I not feel my age? I’ll tell you – it’s positive thinking that makes it work. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2006 – up to that point, had not had any significant health issues. My Mom had breast cancer when she was 40, mine didn’t show up until I was 60. So is it because of healthier living, less stress or what?

I’m married to a wonderful guy – 2nd time around, and treats me like I’m his whole world. That helps. I had a job that I liked – working with people and trying to help them with their computer program issues.

But after awhile it became very stressful – we had moved to an area, where it took at least an hour to get to work – and the stress of the drive, made the job stressful – and I truely associate my developing breast cancer with that stress (it was a total of 10  years of the long drives, etc). So I retired from that job.

I could have moaned and complained about getting breast cancer – but I was determined to have a positive attitude about it. And I think that helped me survive it, as well as get on with my life looking forward to more birthdays! And with each one that comes along, I thank God for granting me another year, I thank my husband for his support and love, and I thank my family for all they do for me!

I’ve been asked what I would like to do on my next birthday. Well, my oldest daughter is in the running for a free trip to Jamaica, and she plans on taking me – that will be around my birthday – what more could I ask for!

My husband and I have a very busy life – you would think being retired, life would slow down. But he farms, I have a web on-line business as well as an Etsy shop and an Artfire shop. Plus in the summer, we run a produce stand. So my dream birthday, would just be, to stay as busy as we are – because we both love what we are doing! (ok maybe a few days off, spending time at Disney World would be a good birthday present).

Because my husband and I both prefer to purchase things we need or want as the occasion occurs – we don’t worry about gift giving. However, I have been known to go out and shop for my birthday – (not all I shop for is for my business). So I guess you could say I buy my own gifts – but hey – my husband gives me the extra money – to go out and buy something for my self and I certainly won’t turn that down! 

What’s your favorite thing to do for your birthday??

Sandi