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The clock is ticking. Ticking down to the end of summer, clicking down to the shorter days, and clicking down to a big birthday for me. You see even though I have been turning gray since I was 32 years old, this September I turn the big 4-0. In the past, this was a number that I didn’t think would ever really bother me. That is until it has started to settle in here the last couple of months and suddenly, I am thinking about it all the time.
Frankly, I don’t feel like I am 40 years old. I have listened to others make that same statement over the years, but I now know what they are talking about. Sometimes I have a hard time realizing that I am old enough and responsible for a business, mortgage, vehicle payments, retirement savings, and four children. Most of the time I am just trying to survive the days biggest question which is usually “what’s for supper?”
I am active and even though I had some health challenges in the last couple of years, I feel like I was playing college sports “just yesterday.” The reality is that my first volleyball practice in college was now 21 years ago – yikes!
In our house we believe life is too short and birthdays are meant to be celebrated. I plan to approach this birthday with the same mentality. However, I can’t help but feel like I should re-visit my life goals and aspirations as suddenly I feel like my clock is also ticking down.
When making that statement out loud those that have already done a big birthday will usually have one of two statements 1. “Oh it was just another day and another birthday.” Or 2. “Oh you are young yet!”
Although I can appreciate both perspectives, I can’t help but wonder what my response will be in the future to those younger than myself. I certainly do not feel like I have learned enough or experienced enough yet to be able to give any advice.
So what are my goals for the year of 40? I have a little list started which includes: weekly meal plan to decrease the stress of supper-time questions, get one more hour per sleep every night, decrease the number of coffee ounces per day, and take two days per month to catch up on housework/paperwork when my kids are in school.
Bottom line: enjoy more and stress less. I am hoping this is a recipe for more birthdays to come, but I will take recommendations as well!