40 years. Blood, sweat and tears. But by the Grace of God, Wow 40… I’m heeeeere!
I can’t believe it. I feel OFFICIALLY grown! I know that’s crazy to say but really this is the age where I do feel like I’m accomplished. I’ve LIVED a little, got a boatload of wisdom along the way, raised a grown child and have four more following suit. Married my best friend and partner Rudy and loving and living life. Degreed-TWICE. Worked as a journalist for 15 years in the industry. Won Awards. Became a teacher. Impacted lives. Started a business; helped legions of people–Made a difference. Living out my dreams. Author. Blogger. Using my platform to share my parenting expertise. Traveling. Formed great relationships with big brands. (Disney loves me). Look what happenes when you wish upon a star! In 40 years, I’ve had my share of UPS and DOWN and now I’m coming around the bend and I am so much BETTER than I used to be. I made it to 40. I’m BEAUTIFUL! I’m HEALTHY! I’m ALIVE! I’m GRATEFUL for this moment. 
As I look back over my life, there is nothing I would do differently. Every mistake and failure brought me to where I am today. Without those lessons I would NOT be living my best life. I would not fulfilling my purpose in life. I would not be married to my best friend. I would not be a mom to my FIVE fabulous kids – they give me life!
I’m living a PURPOSE driven life. I have everything that I want and try to help those who are without. It gives me a greater sense of purpose here on earth. Who are we if we don’t help someone else?
If a genie came and said he would sprinkle magic dust and give me the ability to do it all again, I’d so NO THANK YOU! I’d Never risk NOT meeting Rudy. He is the best thing that ever happened to me besides birthing my kids. God was really watching over me when he sent him my way.
I believe because I have a good heart and give, God gives back to me. I wish everyone lived with purpose and meaning because the gift you give to others is your GREATEST strength!
So now what’s ahead for the next 40 years? What else is there to do and achieve? I look forward to raising my kids to be excellent adults, seeing them off to college, becoming an empty-nester and traveling the world like a nomad! LOL Well sort of. I’m probably going to create a bucket-list and get busy filling that bucket up! LOL (And first on my list is taking my first cruise with my husband in July next year! Yes we are going to the Honduras and Mexico!)
I really can’t express how thankful I am to be alive living out my dreams and living STRESS-FREE and happy! That is a true blessing and the best gift of all. No I didn’t have a big birthday bash. No need. I just wanted to be surrounded by my husband and kids – and have a small gathering at home. That’s what makes me happiest in this moment!
Happy Birthday to ME!
Being in your 40’s totally ROCKS! It is so much better than being in your 30’s. Have a fabulous birthday!
Happy 40th, you look great. So many accomplishment and it’s just the beginning. Wishing all the best.
Thanks so much. Appreciate the kind words.
I hope you enjoyed your birthday. You are a woman of many talents and accomplishments. I admire all that you have accomplished. I think you are awesome!!