That was 40

Friends. I survived being 40, and you will, too! Saturday morning I woke up and BAM! just like that I am 41.

My 40th year was spent focusing on me. Selfish. Yes? But, I don’t give a crap…because I am 41.

My 40th year was spent drinking a little bit less. Do I miss a glass of wine with dinner? Yes! But, I am saving those calories for well made margaritas enjoyed with my girlfriends.

My 40th year was spent cleaning out my closet. Was it hard to let go of those college tees? Yes! But, I have memories and amazing friends that I cherish from that time. And, let’s face it, I don’t need the extra laundry.

My 40th year was spent losing weight. I cannot believe I am going to put this out for the world to see, but…I lost 21 pounds last year. Part of me wants to die because I allowed myself to gain that much weight, but that is what happens when you do not focus on you. Here’s my secret: Hold yourself accountable. Buy a FitBit and participate in challenges with your friends. No friends with FitBits? I’ll be your friend, shoot me an email and we’ll connect.

My 40th year was also spent running. [Which helped me lose weight, too.] I don’t want to think of how many miles I ran over the course of the year. I will tell you that I trained for and completed two half-marathons. At 40. Yes, you can do it, too. Be sure to cheer me on when I run my third half marathon of the year on October 2nd!

My 40th year was spent assessing relationships, both good and bad. There were some people that I said goodbye to, there were some that said goodbye to me, and there are many that I’ve simply hidden on Facebook because I don’t want to see their drama in my life.

What I learned during my 40th year

As a society, we put a lot of focus on age. Especially on the ages where Hallmark has special cards. But what we should be focusing on is what matters to us. Life isn’t about living to blow out another candle on a cake, it’s about what you do all the days in between.

Last year, was a hard year. There was job loss and the unspeakable stress that comes with that. That experience made me stronger. And it continues to do so. It showed me the true side of others; and that was both scary and eye opening.

Last year, was also a fun year. I strengthened my tribe of women. I found my quarters and got rid of a bunch of pennies.

Last year, we got a dog. Charlie is his name. He teaches me about being patient and the importance of being consistent.

"There's a bunny over there. I know it! Can we go see, please? PLEASE?"

September marks a new year for me – and it’s already off to a great start. Did you see who I met on my birthday?

My advice to you as you turn 40. Embrace it. Focus on yourself and what matters to you. Cull the friend list, and maybe the family, too. It’s your life. Live it!