The Big 4-0!

Me...at various ages...sizes...degrees of happiness...

So, yeah, today is my birthday. It was 40 (I can't believe I'm saying that) years ago today that I made my entrance into this crazy, beautiful world. It's really surreal to be 40. I remember when I was a teenager, and I thought 40 was ridiculously old. But 40 is the new 20. Right? Age is a state of mind. Right? I honestly feel 25. I am the healthiest physically than I've been in 10 years. I've endure so many hardships in my life-growing up with drug-addicted parents; being evicted from home after home; not knowing if there would be dinner on the table...But I've also had some beautiful experiences-going to Africa; falling in love; learning to make soap!

So as I start this new chapter, my heart is filled with such joy! There were times that I never thought I would make it-mentally, spiritually, or emotionally. Now, I am so grateful for every day that I open my eyes that I could just shout it from the rooftops. I am learning the power of forgiveness and living in the present. I am learning to love myself once again! So yes, I am 40 years old today, because my 39 year old self could never write these words and mean them with the strength and conviction that my 40 year old self now possesses!

And now, I shall have some cake....