I’ve been getting ready for this moment for what feels like forever. The age of 40 has been like a lighthouse in the distance, beckoning me closer, challenging me to embrace it. Those ahead of me have shared their wisdom: “It’s all downhill from here,” “Forty isn’t so bad,” and “One day, this will be you.” One day.
When I was a kid, 40 seemed like a party filled with people bringing my dad black flowers and gifts adorned with “Over the Hill” slogans. In my teenage years, I thought 40 was a fantasy, something that would never truly happen to me because it felt so ancient—like a lifetime away. As I reached my 20s, 40 was still far off, a mere “someday,” much like Sally lamented in When Harry Met Sally. Oh, the comfort of having years ahead!
Then came my 30s, when the reality of turning 40 began to creep in. Suddenly, 40 was no longer a distant dream but a looming presence, heralding the inevitable “Over the Hill” gifts that awaited me. And now, here I am. Right at the edge.
I’m stepping into 40. The Big 4-Oh. Just like Sally famously exclaimed, that “someday” has arrived—not in eight years, as Harry reassured her, but right now.
And honestly? It’s not quite what I envisioned. It’s unnerving, it’s unexpected, and I have thighs that look completely foreign to me. But you know what? It’s even better than I could have wished for.
My 40 looks like this:
- Surrounded by friends who lift me up, wanting me in their lives, while saying farewell to those who don’t.
- Yearly mammograms that hurt like crazy (but hey, it’s necessary).
- Speaking my truth in ways I never dared in my 20s—because I’m an adult now!
- Bidding farewell to influential loved ones who played a significant role in shaping me.
- Feeling comfortable in my skin, even if my thighs could be classified as a mystery.
- Watching friends navigate divorce while others celebrate togetherness.
- Having pals arrive in a white limo with champagne to toast my milestone instead of black flowers.
- Being married to someone who understands my quirks and chooses to stick around.
- Having no clue about Common Core math and being totally fine with that.
- Listening to ‘80s hits and realizing “Hangin’ Tough” wasn’t tough at all.
- Raising kids who will eventually leave, and hoping I’ll be ready to let them fly.
- Embarking on a new writing journey.
- Seeing friends reconcile their relationships.
- Purchasing braces, glasses, and college funds.
- Mastering the art of saying “no” without caring what others think.
- Grateful that my body still lets me run marathons.
- Indulging in good wine without guilt.
- Letting go of that scale number and accepting the one that’s there instead (mostly).
- Recognizing I haven’t cherished every single moment with my children.
- Vowing to savor every second moving forward, because time flies!
- Hearing “Bucket List” and realizing it’s time to get going—Paris and the pyramids are calling my name.
- Ending my day by closing my eyes and thanking the universe for the life I have.
As I approach this significant birthday, I feel a mix of anxiety, excitement, and disbelief at how quickly 40 has crept up on me. I’m hoping the next 40 years move at a pace I can actually keep up with. When I blow out my birthday candles, I’ll be making wishes, promises, and hopes for myself, crossing my fingers that my 40s will meet my expectations. Because let’s face it—I will be 50. Someday.
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In summary, turning 40 is a blend of nostalgia, growth, and embracing new beginnings. It’s a transition filled with moments of reflection and excitement for what’s to come.