50 - how wonderful

It's been a good two weeks now, but it still feels wonderful to be 50 now.

I have celebrated the big, round birthday with over 30 big and small parties so far.

Among other things, there was a coffee with the godchild and his parents, a jazz concert, a Lud concert and a Persian concert, two delicious meals, a banana milk shake in the morning, a visit to an exhibition and a big party on board.

And I also marked the birthday by planting lots of strawberries, tomatoes, flowers and four trees. Even though I don't think the world will end tomorrow.

For me, this birthday was probably the best of my life. It was and is such a joy to be alive. I don't take it for granted at all. There have been several accidents in my life that could have cost me my life.

And it was wonderful to see, read and hear that I enrich the lives of other people with what I am and can give.

That, too, is anything but a matter of course. So I am deeply grateful all round.

And enjoy the words, the gifts and life itself.