04/26/2026
Turning 63 feels less like reaching an age and more like standing in the middle of a long, beautiful story I’ve been lucky enough to live.
I was born in 1963 and grew up in a time that felt alive with music and movement. I remember the energy of nights in New York, the sound and spirit of places like CBGB and The Ritz, Rockaway Beach and how artists like Madonna , America The Smiths and The Ramones (so many more)seemed to give voice to something I didn’t yet have words for.
Back then, everything felt possible, even when I didn’t know where I was headed.
In 1982, I followed a pull I couldn’t quite explain and took a one-way ticket to California. The Sierras gave me space to grow, to reflect, and to begin understanding who I was becoming.
Life didn’t unfold in a straight line. There was marriage, and divorce, and the deep responsibility and joy of raising four children. Now, being a Mimi, one grandson here and another arriving so soon is one of life’s sweetest gifts.
I’ve worn many hats over the years: teacher, librarian, entrepreneur, wanderer. Each role shaped me, humbled me, and taught me something I carry forward.
I’ve had friendships that have lasted a lifetime and others that were only meant for a season, and I’m grateful for all of them. Every person, every chapter, left something meaningful behind.
There have been great times, good times, and some very challenging ones. Moments I wish I could have held onto just a little longer, and others that taught me strength I didn’t know I had. Through it all, I’ve gathered small nuggets of wisdom about patience, about letting go, about showing up for the people I love.
I don’t have it all figured out, and maybe I never will. But I feel grateful for my family, for my friends, for the path I’ve walked and the one still unfolding.
If anything, this moment feels like a quiet pause to say thank you… for all of it. Love love love 🩵JB