I think I might have scared a few of my almost-40-year-old friends into dreading their birthdays way more than is necessary. Since I started my 40 Days of 40 and also began planning some fun times for my actual birthday celebration, I've started really looking forward to my big day.
It's like I'm 7 again, and I'm helping my mom decide if we should play Pin the Tail on the Donkey or Musical Chairs. (Those were actually considered good parties back before we had Pump It Up, gymnastics parties and Libby Lu.)
And the 40 Days of 40 are going great because when I want something all I have to do is snap my fingers and say, "It IS my birthday, you know!" and then my family members do whatever I ask. (Well... Sometimes.... Actually, they are very nice to me on a regular basis.)
Up until a few weeks ago, I was thinking that if there was anything in life that I really wanted to do during which someone might announce my age, I should do it quickly. You know... like if I wanted to be on a game show, or maybe try out for a reality TV series, or if someone suddenly wanted to interview me on a talk show. That kind of thing. I would want them to announce me as a mom in her 30s.
But then my husband, who turned 40 in January -- and is now extremely wise in his years -- made a very good point, which changed my perspective completely.
He pointed out that it's better to be the youngest person in your category. For example, if I wanted to run a marathon or maybe participate in an Iron Woman competition. You know. Stuff like that. It would be better to be a young 40 going up against the 49-year-olds.
Plus I would rather have people say, "Wow! You look so good to be in your 40s!" Rather than, "You're in your 30s. Hmmm... I wouldn't have guessed."
I'm starting to really look forward to this new decade in my life. I think every decade so far has been better than the one before it. I'm looking forward to trying some new things... and of course some new shoes to go with it.
Well put. My son is going to Chicago this week to visit a friend who moved there from WA. Sooo excited.
ReplyDeleteI like your new perspective! And of course new shoes are great at any time:)
ReplyDeleteLaurel
I think the first thing you should do, and I'm sure Kent will agree with me, is take a ride in a two-seated open wheel race car! THAT would be fun!
ReplyDeleteNew shoes are fun too!
:)Lynn
Speaking as someone who is closer to 50 than 40, you're still very young!!! :o)
ReplyDeleteThanks for visiting my blog. Nice to meet you. Hope your birthday turns out to be better than your expectations - He can do more than we ask or imagine!
Blessings,
Joy
As a 46 year-old, I can say, "GREAT perspectives!" Fun post.
ReplyDeleteCannot believe you are going to be 40. Love your outlook and the fun you are having with it
ReplyDeleteHappy birthday late!! I subscribed... looking forward to reading your posts! :)
ReplyDelete