So, I just hit the big 3-9. On my birthday, I made a point to let everyone know how totally chill I am about turning 40. I may have even thrown up some peace signs and shouted, “I’m ready to take on 40!” But let’s be real—I might have also created an ambitious to-do list for the year leading up to the big four-oh, which stressed me out so much that I needed a nap. Just a little.
Now that I’m 39, a lot has been swirling around in my mind. Here are a few thoughts I’ve had:
- My kids are full of mind-blowing facts! The other day, my son casually informed his sister that thunder is just lightning breaking the sound barrier. I mean, I always knew that, right?
- Can we talk about my skin? It’s in a total state of chaos. I’ve consulted dermatologists and facialists, and I’m starting to think that water is now my BFF. Also, I’ve learned that if I indulge in pizza, I’m signing up for a chin zit.
- Recovery? What’s that? Whether it’s after a workout or just sitting cross-legged for too long, my body is now sending me very clear messages: “Hey, you’re not as young as you used to be!”
- I’m on a quest for inner peace. Some days, it involves meditation; other days, it’s just a glass (or two) of wine. Namaste, Two-Buck Chuck!
- I’m grateful that I can still text my mom for her amazing dumpling recipe because I know that day won’t last forever.
- Life’s too short for fleeting friendships. The people I connect with now are sticking around, whether they like it or not!
- Sometimes, doing absolutely nothing is my favorite pastime. I think I’m channeling my inner 80-year-old.
- I find myself pondering mortality more often—mine, my parents’, and even the beloved actors I’ve grown up with.
- I’m serious about my goals now. It’s honestly a now or never situation.
- The perfectionist in me from my 20s? She’s gone. Good riddance!
- I really couldn’t care less if someone dislikes me now.
- I’m ready to prioritize myself over politeness.
- I spend a lot of time encouraging my family to be more independent. One moment, I’m helping my parents with technology, and the next, I’m teaching my kids they can get their own socks.
- I totally get my mom now when she said she couldn’t remember life without us kids. I look at mine and think, how was there ever a time I didn’t know you?
- And that morning reflection in the mirror? Let’s just say I’m not ready for that conversation.
Time is flying, but honestly, if I could go back to my 20s, it would be just to enjoy some Ben & Jerry’s without the next-day repercussions.
For more reflections on the journey of parenthood, check out this post about home insemination. Also, if you’re interested in learning more about artificial insemination, here’s a great resource that can help.
To sum it up, turning 39 is a mix of life’s little surprises, personal growth, and a healthy dose of humor about the aging process.