This is 40 --part 2-- Celebrating Life

This is how I feel about turning 40!

It's my last day of being 39. I have never looked forward to a birthday so much. Well, except maybe the monumental one of my youth, but I have to tell ya, 40 looks pretty darn good to me.

For the first time in probably 10-12 years I feel healthy. Even before the Ulcerative Colitis diagnosis in 2004, my health was a constant roller coaster. I've seen more doctors and specialist than the average person under the age of 40. 

Turning 40 is a major mile marker for anyone. It signifies the beginning of midlife. Adulthood is in full swing and there is no denying it at 40. 

I don't plan on having the traditional midlife crisis now but, I do intend to live everyday abundantly. Life is short. I've come to realize this not just by my own close call with death, but by experiencing the loss of many special friends and family who died way too young. As far as I can tell, the years keep getting better and I plan to enjoy each new day in honor of those who can't. 

I am thankful to be celebrating the end of my thirties. It marks a new chapter in my life. My forties will bring many, many new and exciting changes. I will witness my oldest graduate from high school this year and begin making his way in the world as he embarks on the journey of college. My second son won't be far behind him as he will finish 2 years later. Shannon and I will become "empty nesters" at 43 and 42. We didn't have much time as a young married couple to frolic and play nor did we have the funds. So, when we become a party of two again we plan to live it up big.  40 is looking better and better all the time...

I only have to look in the mirror to see that my spring chicken days are fading. I have a few lines on my  once smooth face that represent life and all it's glory. The natural gray highlights in my hair become more evident with the passing of time. My body has changed too with the help of 2 pregnancies, multiple surgeries and the addition of my ostomy. Sure, I would love to look like time skipped over me but that's not reality and trying to keep that facade going would be extremely tiring and very expensive. 

Today I am 39 and tomorrow I will be 40. I OWN that! I claim every single day! To deny getting older is like slapping God in the face in my opinion. He's brought me through so much and I am ever thankful. I will embrace the laugh lines and crows feet, even the gray hair. I will buy the under garments needed to lift and conceal but I will not deny my age. I will take care of myself and do what I can to age gracefully. I won't fret over my fading youth, I will embrace the place where I am and enjoy each passing year, cherishing them as the very gifts that they are.

This afternoon, Shannon and I along with some dear friends will hop on a plane headed to Vegas. I know--cliche--but it's fun! We plan to eat, drink and forget we have responsibilities for a couple of days. What more can a girl ask for?