The wind is whistling around the corner of the house, rattling the shutters and bouncing acorns off the roof.

Today I spent six hours blowing and raking leaves to the curb. The giant oak drops a mighty carpet of leaves each year. Tomorrow I think I may find them all back in the yard once again.

This morning began with a sleep-in, listening to the wind and rain. I love a good thunderstorm! The leaves from the maple trees were plastered against the windows.

Now the afternoon is balmy with blue skies, and the maple filters the sunlight.

Tonight I’ll celebrate with family and friends. Turning 50 isn’t so bad–and as both my husband and my father have reminded me, it beats the alternative!