Hey, hello! Today is my 42nd birthday. Shout out to 1978! To October babies! And to celebrating life in the midst of a pandemic.
Some people shy away from sharing their age, but I’m a big, bold birthday teller. 🙂 My dad was orphaned at 12, and as a kid growing up I didn’t think much about what that must have been like for him. But as an adult, it’s made me appreciate what an honor it truly is to have the opportunity to grow older.
While 42 isn’t a milestone, there is something uniquely special about birthdays this year. Having something to celebrate in 2020 feels really good. And if I’ve learned anything this year it’s that the best things in life are often the things we take for granted……like hugs…..gosh, I miss hugs.
I have to say, I know I’m only 2 years in, but I’m a big fan of being forty-something. I feel like I’m finally seated at the cool kids’ table. But really, it’s like I’ve finally looked around and realized that I’ve always been here because every table is the cool kids’ table.
I’m not really sure how to describe the feeling, but being forty-something feels empowering. In a way, it’s like a veil has been lifted, and I can finally see things more clearly. What I once thought was beautiful looks toxic and unhealthy, and what I thought was boring feels soothing and comforting.
For me, it feels like I’ve been living in a snow globe (or more preferably a glitter globe) and finally at forty the snow/glitter started to settle.
Sometimes I wish I could go back in time and tell my younger self not to sweat the small stuff. I’d go back and tell myself not to search for validation or approval, to worry less about trying to fit in and just be myself. I’d say, “Girl, you’re never going to find happiness in a smaller size or a lower number on that scale.” I’d eat without guilt. And I’d love my body as it is.
But I’m not sure my younger self would have believed that you can actually throw your scale in the trash and live happily ever after.
I think you learn the lessons by living them.
And I’m ever so grateful I’m here to continue learning.
Birthdays are special and sacred around here. And I like celebrating with a giveaway!
I’m giving one lucky winner a copy of my favorite book of 2019 and a collection of my favorite Beautycounter products! To enter leave a comment sharing one piece of advice you’d share with your younger self.
I’ll contact the winner via email on Friday! Good Luck!
*This giveaway is now closed. The winner has been contacted via email. Thank you to all who entered!
Learn to love exercise, especially strength training. It makes a huge difference in sleep, attitude, hormones, everything. Also a 1978 girl! 🙂