40 Might Not Be Bad...With the Right Party

Turning 40 may be depressing, but the party celebrating that birthday was amazing. My husband did an awesome job. I’ve never smiled so much.
The guest list was small, but included the people who mattered most to me…my family. It had the appropriate amount of old age sarcasm, which I would expect from my husband. In fact I think I’d have been disappointed if the party had been different. Although he could have used a better picture on the “Lordy! Lordy! Look whose 40” signs displayed to show people where to find the party. I plan to make great use though of the black cane complete with bicycle horn. And let’s not forget the silly boulder hat with shaggy, silver “hair” hanging down or signs posted everywhere with the tube of polygrip.
The site of this great occasion – a local metro park- was perfect. We had all kinds of outdoor activities including volleyball. Normally I would avoid this sport, but I actually dragged my nearly 40-year-old body out to enjoy numerous games. But the best part of the party – I didn’t have to do a thing but have fun. I can’t tell you when that happened last.
But now comes the hard part – actually turning 40. The party has definitely helped, but I got a little wisdom from one of the party goers that will stay with me a long time and hopefully ease the transition into a new decade of life.
“Don't feel too bad about turning 40. It is a hell of a lot better than the alternative. Hell, I'm 65 and don't feel (or act it) and you know your mom is still going strong. Age is ONLY a number. Be proud of it and keep moving on. You will NEVER get younger in age, but you can control how OLD you really allow yourself to get.”
The author of this great wisdom was my uncle. I have a tremendous amount of respect for him. Even though I’ve heard similar things from others, it was never phrased quiet this way and it never had the effect his words had on me. Almost instantly his words had an effect. As of today, turning 40 doesn’t look quite so bad. I have the urge to make the most out of 40 instead of dreading it. OK well, today anyway. I’m notorious for changing my mind so only time will tell how this year will go. In the meantime, I think I’ll still hold on to my “39 Forever” badge from my party. Just in case.