name='p:domain_verify'/> Always A New Day : What Turning 40 Means For Me


4.07.2017

What Turning 40 Means For Me

Some have commented that I celebrated 40 for a long time. And, we honestly have - Napa in the fall, a surprise birthday gathering in early March, and my Round Top getaway on my actual birthday. It's not about attention at all - it's about letting it just sink in, and I had to - slowly.

Forty means a great deal to an anxious and busy mama. Forty means all the memories come rushing back - as if they happened yesterday. Life goes too fast, you guys. And it's fun, crazy, and bittersweet. No matter what age you turn this year, you are allowed to feel nostalgic, remember the glory days, and even celebrate as long as you see fit!


Before I let it all go and jump right into my fabulous 40s, I wanted to flashback and remind myself what storms and triumphs I've endured.

I still remember when my dad had his first heart attack when I was four.

I still remember moving to that Texas cul-de-sac from Louisiana soon after.

I still remember the epic Halloween parties my neighbors had each year.

I still remember being so afraid I couldn't reach my top locker in middle school.

I still remember being devastated when I didn't make cheerleader.

I still remember how nervous all my friends and I were on the first day of high school so we carpooled in one car.

I still remember my first broken heart.

I still remember sitting on my day bed wondering if my crush would call. On my personal phone line.

I still remember getting my college acceptance letter and knowing that school was the one.

I still remember sorority bid day.

I still remember my first day of student teaching.

I still remember losing Michael. Then Dad. Then Maw-Maw. Then my brother.

I still remember thinking my next door neighbor in my apartment building was cute. Then, I married him 4 years later on one of the best days (and best parties) ever.

I still remember telling my husband we were going to have a baby. Then the day 4 years later when I got to say it again.

I still remember worry. Anxiety. Excitement. Joy. Peace. And repeat over and over again.


These memories are so fresh. Many feel like yesterday. So how can I be 40? The pessimist in me is sad that it all happened so fast. But, then I think how blessed I am. The blessings surround me. I know my repeat emotions will happen, but at 40, I am blessed because I am here. God chose this life for me, and He helped this birthday happen.

The celebrations have ended, but the best year is here. Thanks for being on this ride with me and letting me talk about it for so long.

More memories to come!

24 comments :

  1. I'm turning 40 in 3 years and it's been on my mind as my 37th birthday approaches. I don't feel like someone who will be turning 40!

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  2. My mom once said to me that when she wakes up in the morning she is always in shock when she looks in the mirror because mentally she doesn't ever feel her age. I think it's true for all of us. With each birthday we are like "how am I this many!" 🤣🤣🤣

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  3. I'll be 39 this year and it just struck me the other day that I've lived a lot of life in that time ... where did it all go? I remember thinking 40 was old and now, nearing that age myself, I don't feel old at all!

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    1. It goes SO fast - it's crazy! I don't feel "old" either :)

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  4. Enjoy the ride that is your 40's, ongoing reflection and hope for the future! I loved your reflections.

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    1. I am ready for the ride though it feels it got here so fast!

      Thank you!!

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  5. 40 is the new 20, and that's how old you look. sorority bid day is SO exciting... i miss those feelings and hanging out with new members. I'm also a teacher too, i still get nervous on every first day of school LOL

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    1. You are so sweet! I remember those first day jitters so well :)

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  6. While it's always lovely to reflect back on the blessing of life so far, 40 is fantastic! So many new experiences to have and memories to make, but with the wisdom and confidence that come with age. Enjoy mama, keep celebrating! Happy Birthday! :)

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    1. Thanks so much! I feel proud I made it "this far" and can't wait for more!

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  7. Each decade is special and precious. I'm in the middle of the big 50...and can honestly say that each new milestone brings the best from the last, to move forward into the next. Enjoy, Happy Birthday!

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  8. Aw, I love this! Happy Birthday! I'll be 30 next year...and remember a lot. Looking forward to even more

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    1. Thank you so much! You have many exciting times ahead of you!

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  9. Happy birthday! I just turned 40 on 3/21 and I went to Italy, had a very fancy dinner w my siblings and a night out w my friends! Mommatogo.com

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  10. Happy birthday. Haven't you heard 40 is the new 20. xx

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  11. Happy 40th birthday to a beautiful mama! I love your "I remember" list : )

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    1. You are so sweet! Thank you!! I loved writing and reflecting what came to mind.

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  12. Happy birthday! 40 and fabulous! Your I remember lost is great!

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