Turning 40—a milestone that often comes with mixed emotions. For me, it’s a daunting reminder of the passage of time. As I peek through the door of this new decade, I find myself contemplating the journey behind and what lies ahead.
When I think back on my 30s, it’s like reliving a dream, filled with the most magical of moments. I met some amazing women who turned into my besties for life, transitioned into a new career, graduated from college, made two big moves, bought a house, and went on the best adventures. But the real plot twist? The serendipitous encounter with the love of my life!
My journey through my 30s was a whirlwind of highs and lows, a gripping saga of self-discovery and resilience. As I stepped into this decade, I found myself navigating the tumultuous waters of newfound independence, freshly divorced, and facing the daunting task of rebuilding my life from the ground up. Yet, amidst the wreckage, I found a profound sense of empowerment as I went on a soul-searching quest to rediscover my identity and find my path forward.
For the first time in years, I had the freedom to prioritize my children and myself, delving into the profound intricacies of self-love and introspection. It was truly an interesting journey, marked by moments of self-doubt and self-reflection.
Learning to love oneself is a journey riddled with obstacles, a winding path of acceptance and forgiveness. Confronting my flaws and shortcomings, I embarked on a journey of self-compassion, learning to forgive myself for past missteps and embracing the imperfections that make me beautifully human. The most unexpected down I had was the loss of a lifelong friendship. To be honest, I am still trying to work through it. I don’t think we talk enough about the ending of friendships that you thought would be forever and how to grieve that loss.
I have to say, wrapping up my 30s was an absolute whirlwind of joy! I tied the knot with my partner-in-crime, my soulmate, the guy who’s going to be by my side through thick and thin. Our wedding day was an absolute blast, surrounded by our closest friends and family. If I could, I’d hit replay on that day a million times over!
And let me tell you about our honeymoon in Thailand—it was like the icing on the cake! From the stunning beaches to the hustle and bustle of the streets, every moment was pure magic. Looking back, I can’t help but feel incredibly blessed for the journey that brought me to this incredible moment in my life.
As I stepped into my new decade, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and fear. Rather than letting fear take the lead, I decided to focus on the endless possibilities that awaited me.
One of the biggest shifts on my horizon? The transition into parenting adult children. For all of my adulthood, my life has revolved around being a parent, shaping my decisions and priorities. Adapting to their needs and schedules has been second nature to me, but the idea of them carving out their paths leaves me both proud and a little nostalgic. It’s a reminder of the incredible journey we’ve shared and the bittersweet reality of their independence.
But amidst the uncertainty, there’s a sense of anticipation. I cherish the bond I share with my kids and know that, even as they create their paths, we’ll always be connected. And while I’ll forever be their mom, I’m also eager to explore new opportunities and rediscover myself in this next chapter of life.
Looking ahead to this new decade, my aspirations remain grounded in what truly matters to me: nurturing my marriage, fostering deeper connections with family and friends, and seeking out a career path that not only challenges me but also offers opportunities for personal and professional growth. And of course, there’s my perpetual quest to chase the sun, exploring new horizons and soaking up as much of its warmth and beauty as I can.
Reflecting on the whirlwind of experiences that defined my 30s fills me with a sense of excitement and anticipation for what lies ahead in my 40s. Each twist and turn, every triumph and challenge, has shaped me into the person I am today, and I eagerly await the adventures and milestones that await me in the years to come.
“Your days are numbered. Use them to throw open the windows of your soul to the sun. If you do not, the sun will soon set, and you with it.” – Marcus Aurelius
Xoxo,
April


