Parenting
By Jamie Spencer
Updated: Aug. 2, 2016
Originally Published: May 13, 2015
Let’s be honest, I might not always tell the truth about my age. Sure, there’s a hint of vanity in it, but mostly I’ve been inspired by the time a little girl in my daughter’s dance class blurted out that her mom was 47. The poor mom responded with that familiar frozen smile that we all wear when our kids say something embarrassing. From that moment on, I resolved to keep my age a secret from my kids. I’m not looking forward to any more awkward announcements in crowded places. But let’s face it, as their math skills improve, my cover story might not hold up for long.
On a brighter note, hitting your 40s comes with its own set of perks:
- Nostalgia with a Twist: You can easily identify those ancient objects shared on social media. You’re expected to like them if you know what they are, but really, is there a purpose other than making those who recognize them feel a bit older? And let’s not kid ourselves—nostalgia is just a euphemism for “I’m getting old.”
- Graciously Accepting Compliments: You’ve mastered the art of responding to backhanded compliments like “You look fantastic for someone in their 40s.” Here’s a tip for compliment-givers: Just say “You look great,” no qualifiers needed.
- Gaming with a Twist: You remember when gaming controllers had a single orange button and a joystick. Nowadays, the plethora of buttons is enough to leave you scratching your head. Give me a classic joystick any day!
- Oldies but Goodies: You find your favorite songs playing on the oldies station. I nearly fell off my chair when I heard “Every Breath You Take” on a station meant for grandmas! Clearly, I’m a child of the airwaves.
- Stylish Swimwear Solutions: While I adore swimming, wearing a bathing suit in public isn’t my favorite. Thankfully, I have an array of cute cover-ups that let me channel my inner fashionista while hiding my insecurities. Who needs a flat stomach when you can look like you’re auditioning for a perfume commercial?
- Fax Machine Mastery: Remember when faxing was a thing? If you played the sound of a fax machine, I bet most people under 20 wouldn’t even recognize it.
- Creating Mixtapes: Those of us who remember crafting real mixtapes on a boom box know the struggle of hitting pause before stop to avoid those annoying clicks.
- Skiing Skills: You can still navigate the slopes with techniques like the snowplow and stem Christie, even if snowboarders are scratching their heads in confusion.
- Understanding Fashion Terms: You recall when “thongs” referred to footwear, not a fashion faux pas. I’ll never forget the awkward moment when I mentioned my “thongs” at work!
- Embracing Your Wrinkles: Botox was once just a poison—and now it’s a beauty treatment? I see my “angry 11s” every time I look at the screen, but I earned those lines and wear them with pride.
- Recognizing a Good Waitstaff: My husband and I were once carded while ordering sake. We weren’t that convincing, but it did lead us to give a generous tip.
So yes, being in your 40s has its perks! Life is good, and each day above ground is a reason to celebrate. Would I trade places with a twenty-something to reclaim my youth? Not yet. But I might just recruit one as my body double for the next pool party!
If you’re interested in more insights on parenting and life, check out our other blog post here. And for those considering at-home insemination, CryoBaby has reputable kits for your needs. Additionally, March of Dimes offers excellent resources for pregnancy and home insemination support.
In summary, being in your 40s is a wonderful blend of wisdom, humor, and a touch of nostalgia. Embrace it!
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