09 Jul Celebrating the 5-0 Birthday!

Happy Monday friends!

That’s it. I am now half a century old and I am ok with that. I think as long as I keep moving forward, what’s the problem?

I thought since I am now 50, I would write 50 things about myself you may not know. Or… 50 things about turning 50 that isn’t so bad..   I’m kidding, kidding.

There are so many quotes about the downside of aging, others a bit more inspiring. I am of the mindset, that turning 50 doesn’t really bother me. I am not thinking “50 is the new 40” either. I am just thinking,  I am happy that I am in better health than I was 10 years ago. The thing about blogging, and being surrounded by amazing, supportive women at midlife, is that the attitude wears off on you! I belong to the Fierce 50 group on Facebook, and women are there to support, challenge and empower other women. I think that is great.

It would only be natural for me to take a look in the mirror and notice some of the changes between 40 and 50. A few more lines near the eyes. Less volume in my face. Things like that. I am not looking to change much, just continue to be the best version of me I can be. I think the satisfaction of getting older, lies in the comfort and confidence I feel in myself. I am not saying everything is peaches and cream, but I think attitude has a lot to do with how one feels about aging.

I know I am grateful that my health has improved over 10 years and will continue to practice wellness and healthy living. Menopause or Peri ( dont know which at this point) has been tough with side effects and has certainly affected my emotions. I am seeing what I can do about that.

 So, today, I wanted to celebrate my 50th with you all. My birthday is actually July 8th, so close enough! Gibson’s Bday is July 7th.. I think that is why he is my kindred doggy spirit! We ( my hubby and I, not Gibson and me) ! went out to a beautiful dinner, at a place.called The Fig Tree, in Charlotte.  Part of my qualifications for a special evening out at a restaurant, is they have to have seafood, and should have an extensive wine list. I don’t eat red meat, and primarily love chicken and fish. Wine- I have learned about many wines and love to try a wide variety of reds. When we sat down, they gave us a wine “book” more or less with over 1,000 wines ranging from Spanish Reds, French Rhones, Italian Reds, various selections of whites as well as so many other varietals Hubby and I shared a bottle of a Spanish Granache, as Spanish wines are some of my favorites!

       The meal did not dissapoint! First we had this amazing foccacia bread with garlic butter. Then, a spinach salad with warm bacon dressing and quail egg. Where we usually order different dishes, we both decided on the Sea Bass entree. SO melt in your mouth good!Sauteed  Sea Bass over bacon, lobster and red bliss potato cake, with asparagus and Lobster Beurre Blanc.  We finished dinner off with some espresso and also a bday dessert- peach bread pudding.

A Bit about The Fig Tree Restaurant-

On their website_

” located in Charlotte’s Elizabeth neighborhood inside the 1913 Craftsman-style bungalow known as the Lucas House. The historic landmark was named after its original owners, John Paul and Alice Craft Lucas. The restaurant is named after the four Brown Turkey fig trees located on the grounds.”

“The comfortable yet elegant setting of the house creates a unique dining experience. Boasting five stunning dining rooms, expansive seating on the veranda and patio, as well as multiple grand fireplaces and a full service bar, everything about the aesthetics of the restaurant — from the original woodwork to the blooming fig trees will delight. The Fig Tree Restaurant is a trifecta of decadent meals, perfectly paired wines, and exceptional service.