Okay, I'll admit it. I was pretty grumpy last Saturday when Susan said it was time to go meet her brother for lunch. I was working in the garden and didn't really want to go anywhere.

Those who know me have noticed I don't really hide my grumpiness too well. I wear it on my sleeve for all to try to put up with.

In hindsight, I should have known Susan was up to something. She normally deals with me at such times by basically telling me to shove my mood up my skinny little a_s, or with words to that effect.

Her trying to soothe me and make things better should have been a sign. Unfortunately (or on this day maybe fortunately) my foul moods often leave little room for much else in my cranium, especially something as subtle as my sweetheart putting up with me.

And so it came to pass that I was the recipient of a surprise 50th birthday party at our friends (and co-workers) Josh and Angie's house.

My son, who had been in Lubbock, Texas the previous day, drove for 8 hours to get there. Susan's son Jeremy was hiding behind a tree. Friends began to arrive. Soon a party was in full swing.

Perhaps the biggest surprise of all was the arrival of YourHubbers Bill and Judy, Nikki, and Karin. Wow! That touched me.

People have been asking me what 50 feels like. Well, here goes.....

It feels pretty good, actually. Sure, I'm a little slower, and I have pretty much given up running due to aching knees, but you know what? It isn't as physically bad as I thought it would be back when I was 20-something.

I am learning to appreciate the people in my life more. There is something about seeing a mix of old friends and new gathered to celebrate MY birthday that is really amazing and heart warming.

I care less and less about material things. I mean, I have a beautiful wife, a great son, two dogs (one quite odd, but that's part of his charm), a one-eyed cat, a good business, and great friends and family.

I have a home I built with my own hands (and lots of timely help) on a beautiful piece of property and great neighbors. I have a cool camera and Photoshop CS3 on my computer. I have a sweet bicycle and my health. Really, what more do I need?

Maybe because I have been to too many funerals the last few years, but I appreciate the fragility of life more than ever. I appreciate taking the time NOW to help someone, or thank someone, or congratulate someone, or write someone, or call someone.

And I appreciate everyone who took the time to come out and celebrate # 50 with me. Even if I did start out a little grumpy. Youz guyz rock. It was awesome. Thank you.

Hey, anyone want to come over and help me finish off this keg of Fat Tire?