In a culture enamored with youth and beauty, the 50th birthday is often seen as a death sentence...in more ways than one. It's easy to see why. What used to be perky is now otherwise. What's trending now trumps wisdom. A once-healthy body now declares mutiny on any healthy choices. And, after years of putting others first, many find they are lonely, depressed, and lack meaningful work.

On the eve of her 49th birthday, this generally hilarious and fun-loving author stood before a dark path, struggling to find purpose and joy. It was do or die, and it scared her. Early one morning (because she couldn't sleep...again), she asked God, "Why am I still here? What is it you want me to do?"

"Focus on regaining your health - physically, relationally, emotionally and spiritually - and then write about it."

So the journey began.

In Russell's uniquely gut-busting style, Journey to 50 shares the real-life steps and tools Russell used to regain the joy in her life and to see age as a privilege. Her book covers:

• Overwhelming dread
• Open relationships (it's not what you think!)
• Optimal health
• Organic faith
• Outrageous fun

Most of the greats in the Bible were given their "big adventure" in the second half of their lives. Why should it be any different for us? God doesn't want us to sit on the sideline any longer. (He knows how many hours we've put in watching little league!) It's time to reevaluate, to embrace the difference between giving up and letting go, and sit before God and plan out our next journey.

Let the celebrating begin!