I have a confession to make. Last week I turned 40. 40!? How did that happen? Aren’t my parents supposed to be the ones who are 40? I don’t feel 40. I don’t think I look 40. But, I am.

When I woke up the morning of my birthday I kept expecting to be depressed.  Let’s face it, there are only so many times you can hear people shout out, “YOU’RE FORTY??” before you start getting a complex.  I kept waiting for the mid-life crisis to hit.  I kept anticipating that feeling of dread.  You know what?  Those feelings never transpired.  Instead, I started looking at my life and felt incredibly blessed…inspired even.  I mean, I made it to 40!

Are there there things going on in my life that make me sad, stressed, worried, or frustrated?  Yes.  Every day.  Is my life perfect?  Am I perfect?  Not even close…not even a little.  But, I don’t want to dwell on those imperfections.  There are too many good things to focus my energy towards.  Like my children, for instance.  I also happen to have a loving family, food on my table and a roof over my head.

When I first sat down to write this blog post I thought I would change things up a bit and tell you how I was silly by fretting over what 40 year old women are supposed to wear.  I even created mood boards based on items I have in my closet.  I actually searched Pinterest and Polyvore for those coveted stylish, but age appropriate “Over 40” outfits.   I thought since I was looking around for those items, surely someone else was looking, too.  So, why not help the masses a bit and post some of my own fashion musings?

But, I now think while my fashion musings might be entertaining, they would also be trivial.  The best thing I can do is pass on words of encouragement.  Age is just a number, my dear friends.  There is still a lot of living to do.  Go on a walk.  Enjoy all that God has created.  Hug your family members.  Make amends.  Help others.  Pray more.  Laugh more.  Have a good cry.  Pick up the phone and call a long, lost friend.  Learn how to play an instrument (I really want to learn how to play the banjo.  I’m serious).  Just do something that makes you happy.  And be grateful for all that is good in this world (it’s out there…I promise).

I still might post my “What to wear over 40” mood boards, but I’ll do it another time when it doesn’t feel so superficial.  I know I’m in a philosophical mood right now.  Don’t worry, I’ll get back to my silly, DIY self soon.  Right now, I’m just taking life in and wearing 40 proudly.

So, happy birthday to my fellow 40 year olds.  1974 was a great year!

P.S.  Mom, in my mind you and Dad are both still 40 and more beautiful than ever.  Love you!