In a recent interview Kevin Bacon commented that the blessing of age is that your body goes to hell right along with your eye sight so at least you can’t see the deterioration very clearly.

 I used to wonder why older women had those long gray hairs sprouting out of their chin and lips and now I know, you can’t see the damn things. I came by this knowledge recently after a night out with my husband. I had taken care that night with my clothes and makeup and was feeling pretty cute that is until I leaned over the magnifying mirror while brushing my teeth and spotted one gray hair about 3 inches long sticking out of my face right between my eyes. I was freaking horrified. The first thing that crossed my mind was that now I was the older lady with white hair growing out of my face. That being said, I’ve resolved to go easy on myself, to give up relentless self criticism of my body and my looks. I’ve been over weight my entire life. I reached a personal high point a few years ago and nearly gave up but I’m down a few pounds and thanks to a newly awakened interest in weight lifting am strong and fit. I just don’t want to waste any more time thinking about my weight. I’ve spent enough years feeling bad because I didn’t have a flat stomach and perky boobs. I’m laying that bull shit down at last so that I can live my life feeling joy and not angst.

 My mom and her mother had breast cancer. My mom survived and now has one boob with a chunk taken out. I’m completely fine with that and my mom is too. I’m trying every day to rejoice in the fact that my body is strong and does what I need it to do with a minimum of discomfort. I think we diminish our own beauty and strength by striving for and demanding perfection. I’m never going to look like Andie McDowell at this age but I’m holding up OK so far.

 My friend Nancy Welch, goddess of TV, radio and print is coping with rectal cancer. She’s going through an ordeal that I can only imagine in a bad dream. And yet, she’s keeping her head up, writing about early detection (I’ve had my colonoscopy and mammogram) and focusing on the medical journey ahead. http://www.greenvilleonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2011306120010

 In tribute to this fine lady I plan to love my body as never before. To revel in it’s vibrancy and resilience and to staunch my inner critic when she rises up to belittle it. I’m going to be joyful when I take my morning constitution knowing that the simple act of waste elimination is a wonder to behold.

I’m going to rub lotion onto my skin and relish the fact that I can raise my leg to rest on the sink while I

do so. I’m going to walk my dog with my head held high and a smile on my face grateful for the ability to take part in this activity.

 A wise friend once said to me “Just be” and that’s exactly what I intend to do. God speed Nancy.