Cheers to Another 40 Years!

40! Wow, I can hardly believe it! Today was a good day. I planned my schedule in advance to spend the day taking care of me. 

So, when Auggie woke up and told me his throat hurt, Dan swooped in and took care of things. We knew strep and the flu were taking kids at school down left and right. He had no other symptoms or complaints but, sure enough, he tested positive for strep. Still, Dan sent me on my merry way! 

I started with one of my favorite classes at the gym which included 1,000 sit ups. I enjoyed a manicure. I got my roots touched up while enjoying a glass of wine. I relaxed and took in a day all to myself! 

With a sick little one, I was afraid we would have to cancel dinner reservations but our amazing babysitter came to the rescue. She was more than happy to see the kids and eat pizza and ice cream with them. 

As for me, I had the best date a girl could ask for with the most amazing dinner! Dan and I grabbed a cocktail at the yacht club before heading downtown to Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse. It was a delicious and amazing meal to celebrate 40! 

Tomorrow my coach turns back into a pumpkin! It's basketball and a swim meet for our Saturday along with our first snow of the season! This is 40 and I've got a lot in mind for this next decade! 

Thanks to all for the sweet birthday messages! 

On the Eve of 40

On this last day in my 30s, I was thinking about how I feel about turning the big 4-0! I have mixed feelings about entering a new decade. Mostly, I am wondering where the last decade went. I was a new mother when I turned 30 and the past decade, in part, feels like a blur. Three babies and a lack of sleep will do that, I suppose! It was an exciting, challenging, and sometimes painful 10 years.

Many things happened in my 30s that I expected and planned and am so grateful to have in my life. Three amazing babies who are healthy, smart, beautiful and full of life. I am married to my best friend and still look forward to sharing our life together. I was able to travel and experience so many amazing things. I am truly lucky!

Looking back, some things took me by surprise. If you asked me a decade ago, I never would’ve imagined running for office let alone being elected to office at the age of 33! I am able to be a voice for children and families which I love doing. I started my own company and have the flexibility to work and do all those mommy things I want to do. I am still on the hunt for my dream job but I love where life is leading me right now.

Certainly, I never expected to go through the pain of losing my sister. Watching my parents suffer through this loss has been the most difficult challenge of the past decade. Hands down. It has made me stronger though. This loss made me stop and reflect and focus on my own happiness and doing what’s best for my family.

Looking ahead, I am so excited for all the next decade has to offer! A little nervous but very excited!