I MADE IT!

 An extra, non-quilty post today to celebrate a date I've been looking forward to:

Today I turn 71!

Last year I wrote about the significance of turning 70, read that here: BIRTHDAYS 

Both my parents died, years ago, at age 70. I wanted to see 71 and today I can say I made it.

Ready for a birthday dinner with friends:

My mom and dad have been gone a long time, 30 years for my mom, 28 for dad:

Their wedding day, 1950, Mom's high school photo, late 1930's, Dad in the Navy, mid-1940's 

1994, last photo of them taken on a cruise vacation

Mom and Dad were married almost 45 years. Will and I are headed to 50 years on our next anniversary. They lived long enough to see their grandchildren born, and so have we. 

When I reflect on the major changes I have made for my health in the last few years I am grateful and happy. This photo was taken 13 years ago, at about my worst. I won't delete this photo as it tells part of  my story and shows how far I have come:

Lauren and Andy Wilkins wedding day, 2012

To read more about this journey, see the tab above: HEALTH JOURNEY

As I look forward to a long, happy future, I leap out of bed each morning, determined to exercise hard, each day. And to eat smart, most days. My plan is to BE STRONG, BE PATIENT, and BE HAPPY. 

As I told my family last year, once I make it to 71, each additional day is a gift. That's why they call it the "present". 

I am hopeful the BEST IS YET TO COME for me. That is what motivates me to keep my spirit, mind,  and body as fit as I can. The future awaits and I plan to be ready.

And, now, let's quilt.

Barbara