Your thoughts here...
Gayla, I went through the same feelings with both of my babies. Our 26 yr. old jumped right out there and got with it when she was 18 and college bound. I see the most similarity between your artistic son and my artistic daughter (not autistic). She is so right-brained that it took quite awhile for her to find her niche...but she did as I know your son will. We worried about things like, will she be able to care for herself out there in the big, bad world? Well of course, just not the way mom did. Mom (me) had to learn how to step back and enjoy the beauty that comes from a creative mind, no matter how much I wanted to say "are you kidding me?". But she has carved out her path and is blazing it daily. She's 24 and a happy, productive, loved and loving adult.
Now, about turning 50...I'm grateful that I got to see 50. I prefer to say I'm a half-century...makes people think. Gotta have a sense of humor about it. You've got a lot of 50 year old friends out there! I'm one of 'em. Hang in there.
Gayla...
Have a wonderful, God-glorifying time celebrating the life that God has granted to you and your son...thank you for sharing your insight and ponderings as you reflect on these two birthdays. As a 29 yr old with an 8 and 6 yr old, I look to you and other older women in my life to give me encouragement, hope and perspective. Thank you for being used of God in such a profound way in this long-lost, misplaced Texan's life 
Kathleen, wow...thanks so much for taking the time to write such a thoughful comment! It is of comfort to know that I'm not the only one going through this! Yes, at times it's been a "are you kidding me?" moment! lol But I do realize he has to forge his way in this life, just like I did...just like everyone else. We're very, very grateful that he has been such a good kid; he's stayed out of (serious( trouble, and really does have a good head on his shoulders.
When I turned 40, I had a friend tell me that there was a lot of 'freedom' in turning that age. I didn't necessarily feel that way at the time. I do, however, kind of see it that way now. Probably b/c I'm old enough to be most everybody's mother! ha! Thanks again.....I'm CONTEMPLATING the CHS ladies' luncheon....
Kristine, you're such a sweetie! 
Your words are indeed encouraging. Not to mention I'm reminded of my calling to be a Titus 2 kind of woman now. That's a huge responsibility; one that I'm seeing I cannot take lightly.
(((hugs))) to you both!
Ah, Gayla, it was so wonderful to celebrate your birthday with you. I value your wisdom and insight which have come from the bulk of those years. I, too, am thankful God pursued you and placed you in His kingdom, and in my path as a friend. I'll look forward to getting together with you after August 19.
Marcia, you are too sweet! Thank you. It is refreshing to have a young friend who is willing to learn from someone like me.
Yes, we will definitely get together soon!
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