flickr photo :: neoliminal
Dear 30’s,
Well, here we are. It’s been fun. Really, we have had a great run. Tomorrow, seems to be unavoidable. I will be saying buh-bye to you and a smooth hello to your slightly older and wiser sister, the 40’s. I’ve thought long and hard about how to send you on your way: A day at the spa? Chocolate at every meal? Deleting my Facebook account and friending all new people who don’t know I’m turning the big, well you know? But this morning over my 3rd of coffee it hit me like a ton of bricks: I am who I am by the grace of God. My 30’s have been pivotal in that refining process. Where would I be without you? Remember….
- Moving across the country only to find God was already there?
- Being Mommy to 4 beautiful girls…driving me hard to His side?
- Becoming a teacher.
- Finding my strengths.
- Discovering a life verse.
- Living true faith is always tested?
- Learning real marriages are really hard. But worth it.
- Three years around a table that changed my life.
- Seeing the blessings in even the hard things.
- A passion, a place, and a dream.
- Too many moments to list that all add up to – who I am today.
So, here I go. I have no idea what the next decade will hold. And unlike me, 10 years ago, I’m fine with that. For I could never have dreamed this life I live. Honestly, I would have picked another path, perhaps easier, and with less pot holes. Oh, but the view from where I sit is worth every single one. And that is the gift of perspective, only you, my friend can give.
I would have never ever guessed you were nearing the big well you know! Happy Birthday and you know what they say with age comes wisdom. Have a great day.
Jen
Thank you so much Jennifer! Wisdom would be the best gift!
Hope you have a beautiful birthday tomorrow, Stacey! I turn the big 40 in a couple months, so your post was a huge encouragement to me.
Blessings,
Shannon
Oh Shannon how fun – we can do it together!
You have just described – quite well – the true beauty of ‘aging’. I’ll be 50 this year and I am so OK with that, it’s scary. The 40’s were awesome and have prepared me to embrace 50. Amazing how God works that.
Allie
Love your perspective Allie! When you write your “Dear 40’s” post let me know! I will come and cheer you on!
Stacey,
Oh Happy Birthday! (a day early) I am 43 now, and I have actually loved bring in my 40’s much better than 30’s. There is a confidence, and a better overall well being that comes at 40. You are going to rock it girl! You are just entering into the best years of life! Seriously.
Love ya!
Denise
Really? That is so very encouraging! I love the story God is writing for you! Can’t wait to see your new blog home! Sounds super exciting!
stacey, let me just say that the 40’s were probably my peak! honestly, i finally realized i truly was an adult with certain gifts and weaknesses. i learned how to say “no” confidently and learned new things about life and maturity. it’s not that there won’t be difficulties in your 40’s, but there will be much to enjoy about this decade:)
Thanks for saying that Martha, I love your heart!
SOOO beautifully said!!! Happy Birthday Eve!!
Be sure to stop by tomorrow!!! I have 1 very sweet giveaway for #40!!! 🙂
Happy Birthday tomorrow. I am 45 and here to tell you turning 40 was just another adventure with God and so have some fun and live it girl! It can only get better.
blessings
You made me smile! I’m so glad I wrote this today – I wasn’t expecting so much sweet encouragement! Bless your heart!
Wishing you the very happiest of Happy Birthday’s!
Ahh, thanks!
Beautiful. And happy birthday! I pray your forties are full of laughter, love and grace.
Thank you so much Daenel!
Happy birthday sweet (young looking-beautiful-what skin cream do you use) friend. Praying this next decade is even better than the last. {hugs}
You are so funny! Honestly – I need to find a good skin cream! It has to be a good year, I get to hug you in real life in October!!!
Happy Birthday to you! I will be 45 this year. Yep, I’ve been 40 before, and it wasn’t so bad! Enjoy your day.
Thanks Barbie! We are headed to the beach!
Happy Birthday sweet Stacey! I hope you know how much you are appreciated in my life and how encouraging you are to me. Your posts always put a smile on my face and on my heart! <3
I’m right there with you! I’m enjoying my last months of my 30’s too, and it’s so strange to think that they will be gone… I have never stressed about my age before, but approaching my 40’s is odd. 🙂
Thank you for the kind comment on my blog.
The anticipation is most probably worse than the event! I’m learning to be grateful right where I am!