The Journey Inward

She was dreading her birthday this year,
not for the number it was,
but for the pressure she felt around it,
and the sadness she thought she'd feel.

But it didn't come,
not any of it.
She told her kids what she'd like,
she planned her morning,
and left the rest to her new love.

The day began with hiking,
alone, the way she likes it,
scaling four 14,000's in Colorado,
all in one span of 5 or so hours.

Each picture she sent,
revealed her happiness,
her satisfaction,
her badass self.

Then it was time to be spoiled,
to have her new partner prepare dinner,
gifts, and a beautiful evening,
celebrating all that she is.

The following weekend,
the two headed off to Aspen,
and spent a magical four days
hiking, biking, picnicking,
holding a private ceremony
to declare their love,
and relaxing into one another.

From my distance,
I sent an hourly quote about friendship,
mailed her books and journals and poetry,
and worked on a painting of her beautiful dog,
who passed away in the spring.

My friend turned 50,
and it was all she could have hoped for.
My heart is full!



Photo:  Mt. Bross, Colorado.  7.7.25 by SF

Photo:  my painting of Lulu so far. 7.20.25