Getting Older: The "Never's" and the "I Still Can's"

As I see "middle age" on the horizon, I'm realizing that there are some things that will never happen again.

I will never...

• fit into a certain, smaller size of clothing.  Ever.
• have my hair naturally grow in blond...or even brown.
• be able to read fine print without either strong light, holding the page at arm's length...or wearing glasses (haven't caved to those yet!)
• stay up all night and not pay the consequences for days.
• ride roller coasters that have loops and go upside down.
• eat a large piece of cheesecake late at night and go to bed feeling anything but sick.

However, while recognizing that increasing age brings with it a few limitations, I'm thankful there's still plenty that I can do.

I can...

• cherish my husband and the love that's grown between us in twenty-one years of marriage.
• enjoy having children who can dress, feed, and entertain themselves.
• plan new adventures with my family while recalling with fondness all we've done together thus far.
• continue to challenge myself mentally, perhaps even physically...occasionally.
• be thankful for my good health.
• choose to use this time I've been given wisely.

Yes, this few-pounds-heavier, highlighted-hairdo, and early-to-bed lifestyle has its fair share of compensations!