So, I'm 50 on Monday..It's 8:30 am and I'm thinking about what that means and my mother is all about this post.

See,she almost gave her life for me that day. Most people dont know but I was born EXACTLY 3 months premature. 50 years ago, most babies who are 16" tall, and weigh LESS THAN 2lbs dont survive.

When I was born I tore my moms insides out. SHe spewed blood. Alot of it. More than was ever transfused at that hospital until the hospital closed. I was also the smallest ... baby that survived.

My moms only concern was holding me once.. Was I ok? She's bleeding to death and all she wanted to know was I going to live.

They put me in that basin (whatever it's called) to tend on my mother. It was days before she had enough strength to hold me.

We both survived the odds that day because GOD wanted us to. He also put the legendary Dr William T McKenna in our lives in 1961. Without Dr M......we dont make it

Thats not the end of it.

When I was 2 years old, in 1969/1970 I ran a 106* temperature for 2 days and was over 104* for 7 days... I was packed in ice to ensure I didn't burn up. I was unresponsive. AGAIN I put my mom thru hell.

My mom and I have always had a very strong bond.. My dad too but the truth be told, my mom was the poor soul who put up with my bullshit and attitude and I had alot of it.

When I grew up finally, I decided to never EVER give my mom any stress. I respect her so much that I wont ever drink any alcohol in front of her (some of her siblings had a problem), I let her comment on anyting she wants and I have a few traditions with my mom I wont break for anything. long floor-length dresses with a discount price

I havent given my mom any stress at all in well over 25 years. I am a very happy and content person and I cherish every single second I have with my mother.

I am hitting 50 in a good frame of mind. Good health (still have some weight to lose but I've lost 60lbs over all since my peak),

I do miss all the people who aren't here. But I am thankfu for those who still are, especially my mother who has been the same loving, supportive, calming and spunky woman for my entire 50 years.

I've never felt anything but loved and appreciated by my mother. She makes me feel like everything I do is good. She's that way.

So Sunday when we cut the cake (even tho my birthday is Monday)my mother will be right by my side. If she wants to make choo choo noises while she feeds me...thats fine with me.