Tomorrow the inevitable happens, I turn a year older. My daughter wanted to know if I was excited for the big day. “Yes,” I lied. The fact is, I hate my birthday. That wasn’t always the case, but after I turned 21 I decided that it was all downhill. And while a girl never tells her age, the fact is I am getting close to turning the big 4-0. (Note to self, remove year from Facebook page). Granted I have a little ways to go, but it brought back memories of one of my favorite movies, When Harry Met Sally.
Sally: And I’m gonna be forty.
Harry: When?
Sally: Someday.
My someday is almost here. I started thinking about my life and if it’s everything I thought it would be by the time I turned forty. I began to feel depressed thinking about how I’m so, well, average. I don’t have any major accomplishments, it’s been years since I’ve taken a fabulous vacation, I have an endless list of remodeling projects, and I haven’t splurged on a big ticket item for myself in I don’t know how long. (Hint to my husband). But, then I thought back to one of my earlier posts when I said I always try to see the silver lining. And I realize I am very lucky. Balancing work while raising kids without any major catastrophes is a big accomplishment. I haven’t taken any fabulous vacations because I have two beautiful, young children. My house needs updating but at least it will be done to my taste, and I love decorating (that one may be a stretch). And while I haven’t splurged on any big purchases, I don’t have any debt and my husband and I have been very good about saving for our retirement. So I will be able to splurge, someday. Perhaps on a fabulous vacation for my 40th. And the best thing about turning 40 soon is that it’s all downhill after that, which is a lot less of an uphill climb.
what a great entry jodie! nice silver lining. thanks for sending. meanwhile, i am sending you another message (and it goes without say but) happy birthday!!!!!!! my big accomplishment is that actually knew and remembered and documented that today is your big day, rather than the 31st of may. (didn’t i err through years of many of *my own* birthdays between 1999-2002, or so, before coming around to that conclusion?! :-)) love ya.
xoxo, dara
Thanks for the birthday wishes! I didn’t remember that you created your own date. I am proud of your accomplishment 🙂
Great post!!! You are really a great writer!! Love you! Hope you have some portillos cake!
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DQ
Awesome Jodie!! And, you have lots of amazing accomplishments. So proud of you! And, I think we should all splurge on a fabulous 40th vacation with the girls!!
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I’m in! And perhaps this time we can venture out of state.
Surprisingly, 40 may not be the top of the hill. I started climbing upward at 48, and have not yet begun careening off the back slope just yet. So there’s hope for you too. Happy Birthday!
Thanks for the birthday wishes! Glad to hear there is hope for us all 🙂