IT'S THE BIG ONE, BABY!

Well, it finally happened! I turned 50 on January 5th. So far so good! I know life isn't about "getting" things, but I have to say, I was treated to some wonderful and thoughtful gifts. My oldest son, Cory, gave me my first graphic novel. I've always poo-pooed them, but I highly recommend this one. The illustrations are so beautiful and the story is very touching. It's called The Arrival by Shaun Tan (top photos above). My other son, Tom, gave me a heartfelt little silver charm with "Mom" on it. I received my first pair of Uggs and now I know why everyone loves them - oh so comfy! My friend surprised me with a gorgeous floral arrangement and my sister-in-law, Patti, blew my socks off. She is a talented photographer here in Portland, and she snapped a photo of my boys giving their old mom a kiss. She had it blown up and stretched on canvas! Yes, I cried, but they were tears of joy.