I woke up yesterday morning, I actually woke up! Despite being bleary eyed, extremely hungover, and still wearing my party frock from the night before, I was very much alive and it was my 42nd birthday.
Why is this shocking news? It’s a family hoodoo where my siblings and I didn’t think we’d live to see 42 as both our father and grandmother passed away aged 41.
But, here we are, I have survived and feel like the universe has granted me extra time! Time that my father and grandmother never got to experience. It feels incredible, and an enormous privilege.
Like many women of my age I have an anti-aging battle, hiding wrinkles and grey hair, but oh my goodness I also feel like I can wear my age and battle scars with so much pride. Just to be alive, to be able to make ridiculous decisions, feel the sun on my skin, and boogie around the kitchen listening to Benson Boone on full blast!
Remembering all of those who never got to live to enjoy old age.
Here’s to each day of extra time, and embracing LIFE … who’s with me?!
JOANNA CAREW 
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