Numbers don’t seem to matter too much to me.

What is more important is the state of my physical and mental well-being… and where I am in my relationship with God and others.

So, this birthday’s significance has more to do with aches and pains, stress reduction…and how well I am loving God and others.

Current physical update-  right wrist that gives out from time to time and my loose bridge which needs to be replaced. I hate to mention high cholesterol since I have been horrible at changing my diet since coming back to the good ol’ USA (and our wonderful food here)

Mental and emotional update –  In being intentional about learning to be still and relax,  I find it stressful to STOP, I  fight the urge to do “at least one productive” task to earn the quiet time, and I still have to make a concerted effort to think about slowing down the pace.  BUT, the key words here are “intentional about learning to be still and relax“.  So, on this 56th birthday, I can say that I am working on this part of my life and have made it one of my life goals as I do kingdom ministry, believing that God already has the plan and I need to listen to Him and follow.

Spiritual update – “He has given me a new song” would sum up this year of celebration for my life.  Having our last two trips home to the states filled with “things to work on on every front”, it has been such a joy to be home with a peaceful heart and ready to learn new things and grow in new ways spiritually.  It has been an incredible journey of celebrating  family happenings, being with our church families and enjoying the beauty and quiet of our present home surroundings.  I have felt loved and I feel much love for those God has put on my path during this journey home.  I am grateful.

God is good…as I grow (gracefully, I hope) into my midlife years!