The Big Four-Oh

Yup, that’s right. I’m celebrating my fortieth birthday this weekend (actually, it’s right smack on Victoria Day this year). As I face this milestone, I find myself actually looking forward to it. Time was when a woman would claim to be ’38 forever’, but I think we should all feel that 40 is an age to be proud of. Recently I was talking with one of my aunts, and she asked how old I was. “I’ll be forty in May”, I responded. Her retort? “Oh, you’re just coming into your power!”. And I totally agree with her.

In fact, I’ve never felt better than I do on the eve of my fortieth. There’s not a hint of sappy nostalgia, no sense of youth slipping away, not even an aching joint. I can honestly say I’ve never felt more confident, secure or attractive than I do now. I feel healthy, strong and experienced enough to make my way in the world unencumbered by fear. It’s funny – the only reminders of my inevitable advance along the timeline of my life are routine medical screens: a colonoscopy (yesterday, ugh) and an annual mammogram.

I’m not only looking forward to my birthday (gee, I love it when my birthday falls right on Victoria Day); I’m looking forward to the whole weekend. My best pal Laura has planned a weekend of all the activities I love most: a 6-hour day at the spa, dinner out (at a dueling piano joint!), scrapbooking and a movie (Angels and Demons…are you jealous?). Spending the weekend doing what I want – and only what I want – that sounds like a little slice of heaven. Then on Monday, I’ll be home for a birthday party put on by my kids and husband – let’s just hope the weather is nice enough for a barbecue (it did snow this morning, so this is a legitimate fear!)

So there’s the lead-up, the big day, and the big milestone; and I’m looking forward to all three. In some ways, I feel like I’m entering a new stage in my life – a bit like a butterfly emerging from the chrysalis. As my aunt put it – I’m coming into my power. And what’s not to look forward to about that?