Today is my birthday, and I reached the half-century mark.

At 25, I wouldn’t have bet a lot that I would reach this milestone, but thanks to better personal choices beginning in my late 20s, I improved my odds.

My coworkers surprised me this morning by filling my cube with black balloons, images of cranky old men, and one small sign that reads, “Life Begins at 50.” Nice sentiment, but my life began a lot sooner than age 50!

Kim gave me the choice of having a large party or not, and I opted to invite my immediate family last Saturday. I enjoyed the opportunity to actually sit and visit with each of them, which is something that isn’t possible when you are in a large group.

My brother, Bob, and his partner-in-crime, Allen, had arranged for the delivery of 50 pink flamingos and a sign. (See photo below)

I asked my family to record a memory related to me, and I hope to publish the edited version of this conversation sometime soon on my podcast site.

Kim and I had planned to take the family out to dinner tonight, but we have a conflict. Kevin begins high school this month, and we need to attend an orientation. Maybe they’ll serve cake?