This weekend I celebrated my 40th birthday. Yes, 4oth.

I never knew I would be in such a good place when I turned 40.

I always thought 40 was a birthday people dreaded and worried over. Actually, not me. I feel so blessed. I have a wonderful family, and a job that I love. Many passions that I am devoted to. Many friends and outlets for my creativity. Lots to look forward to in this life.

As for presents and cake…who could ask for a present better than the one above? My seven year old presented me with the drawing you see above on the morning of my birthday.

I am still a bit speechless over it.

As her mother I have to brag on it for a minute. Little Anastasia is such a gifted cartoonist. She’s not even seven and a half, and she doesn’t even hold her pencil properly yet. More like in a fist. Truly a special child with a gift (but I am not at all biased or anything) Please do NOT miss the baby alpaca’s boots! And I love the pink boots she drew me wearing. Anastasia conveys emotion in all of her work. When she comes home upset and can hardly explain things, I tell her, “Draw it.” And she does. Then we can talk things through. It is amazing. Back to the drawing – to be appreciated in my own home by my baby is priceless!

My father and oldest child were out of town on my actual birthday so I get to drag this thing out and have everyone celebrate again officially tonight. I am so excited I’m getting a strawberry cake from Very Vera for my birthday cake. (And you know I like cake.) If you can ever get one of these – DO! By all means. They are TO DIE FOR. I promise you. I know that she was in “O” magazine, but I met Vera long ago in Mobile. It’s a Southern thang.

So what about you, dear readers? What do you think about 40? Is it the new 30? How did you celebrate your big 4-0? Or are you dreading yours? Are you constantly turning 29 or do you claim each year as a badge of honor? Leave a comment and let me know what you think.

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