I turned 40 today, so I am reflecting!
So, what can I say about today? Well, I waited until today to write this week’s blog post. I turned the big 40 and I honestly feel great. I feel good. I feel human. I feel amazing. And you know what? I realise sometimes turning a certain age can be difficult for some. I was worried that I would be. We all struggle with getting older and the idea that we can’t quite do things like we used to—like running. I mean, we can still run, but you know what I mean—we’re just not as active anymore.
One of the things I’ve been struggling with is my body weight since the age of 30. I slowed down on exercise. I had two kids. Etc. I realised something important about my body image though. I had never really thought about it much before, until the last couple of years. In fact, growing up, I always wanted to put on weight because I was one of those skinny kids. I thought I’d look better if I gained weight. And to be honest, I was physically active. Playing basketball while at university and doing dance.
Well, I have put on the weight, but I guess I don’t feel as good as I thought I would. I think it’s because I’m not as fit, and my main issue is that my body feels flabby. And it’s the flab that affects my mental health most. As a close friend humorously calls them, my “brioche rolls.” I suppose I am struggling more with my body shape than my weight. I do like the size I am now. However, I just want to be more toned.
And that’s my goal this year as I turn 40—I want to be more toned. It was difficult to exercise after injuring my Achilles. I shouldn’t use that as an excuse, but I kind of have to.
Anyway, let’s try to focus on the positives. The positive is that I just feel good, and it’s nice to celebrate with my family.
My daughter wanted to take me to Egypt to see the pyramids—that’s what she wanted for my birthday. How sweet is that? She recently discovered that the pyramids are real. I don’t know why she thought they weren’t; clearly, I need to work on that! But it got me thinking, she’s right—I should do something spontaneous and out of my comfort zone. I’m not hopping on a plane to Egypt right now. However, I’m genuinely wondering what I could do today that’s random. It should be spontaneous and just for me.
Sadly, I honestly can’t think of anything right now. Egypt is actually starting to sound like a pretty good idea!
But realistically, what spontaneous activity could I do today or even this week? Roller skating or ice skating is out due to my leg. Shopping isn’t appealing because I do that regularly anyway. So, I am not sure what. I’ll have to ‘sleep’ on it.
What activity have you done that’s spontaneous and completely outside your comfort zone? Something like go-karting or that indoor skydiving experience where you float in a wind tunnel? Please share.
Otherwise, that’s where I am today. Mostly, though, I’m just incredibly grateful to be here. Despite the struggles I have been facing— like trying to find a permanent role. Then dealing with my physical health, and everything in between— but I’m alright. I have to say, I’m genuinely happy today. The birthday vibes are hitting differently, and I’m forever grateful. I truly feel blessed.
Here’s to a wonderful 40th birthday for me! I’m excited. I’ll share a photo of myself later, and I’ll definitely let you know what spontaneous adventure I end up choosing. Until next week—or perhaps sometime sooner!
