Friday, October 27, 2006

The Big Day

Yes, the day has arrived. Fifty years old. Half a century. Daughter13 sweetly asks, "So Dad, does this make you a senior citizen?" Ouch!

Work was fun. My office was draped, filled, covered in black crepe paper streamers. Fans were provided for 'hot flashes'. Photos and other desk items were 'artfully' rearranged or hidden away entirely. Login passwords were changed on my computer (to simulate a loss of memory as I typed in over and over what I thought was my password). Electronic greeting cards filled my Inbox while my desk was piled high with various cards featuring pictures of old men. I got little gifts here and there. One classroom really surprised me with a little party where each student made a small presentation of a card, gift, balloon, or treat. And the staff had a birthday cake at the end of the day.

At home there have been cards, gifts, various phone calls from friends and family, and a trip out to dinner with my wife and the kids. Now all that is left is blowing out the candles (hopefully NOT fifty of the suckers!) and having some coffee and cake before calling it a day and settling down to relax.

Being fifty really doesn't seem so bad. But then, it is only Day One.

(Hmmm...I've never hurt there before)

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

I feel like I have found a new friend. Actually, I have a son who turned 50 this year so I can feel very motherly toward all who celebrate the big 50.

Since you just visited my blog, you probably realize I am a retired teacher and my guest writer is a retired HS Assistant Principal.

Looking forward to wandering over here often to read your posts.

Anonymous said...

Being 50 doesn't seem so bad, you say. Just you wait! You'll see...

Happy Birthday, and many many more. Your first visit (with a comment at least) to my blog was on your birthday. I am honored that you awarded me that tiny slice of your very importand day.

Maria commented that she had also been a teacher. What a small world - I spent almost 20 years as a student, so we have much in common...

Em said...

Maria, I look forward to getting to know you. You are a retired teacher and I am currently a teacher, so we'll have lots in common. And your guest writer will share some with me, as well.

Winston, welcome! Thanks for your kind birthday wishes. Look forward to reading more on your blog!

Jill said...

Did you get the application from the AARP yet? I hear they always arrive shortly after the big 5-0 birthday. All I want to know is, how do they know?

Happy Birthday!

Jill said...

Well, Jeez, that's what I get for not reading down a little further before commenting. I still want to know how they know, though.

Sara said...

Happiest of Birthdays to you!