I can remember how I spent some of them over the years: in a hospital, in a bedroom with a newborn because it was the only room in the house with air conditioning, on a soccer field, and sitting through someone else’s big event instead of celebrating my own.

And that’s partly on me.

There’s a saying: You always win the game you’re playing. For years, I was playing the game of flying under the radar—and I got very good at it.

I told almost no one it was my birthday. I gave off a very clear do not buy a cake, do not gather a crowd, and absolutely do not sing to me energy.

This year feels different.

I have a vacation on the calendar, visits with new friends, a concert and a trip to the beach. None of it is a traditional birthday celebration, but all of it feels like one.

I’m about to turn 56, and I don’t intend to sleepwalk through this next trip around the sun. I want to pay attention. Try new things. Put plans on the calendar instead of waiting for the perfect time or for everyone else’s schedules to align.

Maybe that’s what celebrating looks like now: not one big day, but a decision to stop flying under the radar in your own life.

Speaking of taking time to enjoy it, Bloom. is taking a short summer break. This will be our only issue this week, and we’ll be back to our regular Monday, Wednesday and Friday schedule next Monday.

I’m grateful every one of you is along for the ride.

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That's the whole ask.

There's something in it for you too.

Details below.

My answer:

I’m adding it to the calendar.

Questions or Inquiries?