What It Feels Like To Turn 40

Enjoying the precious gift of motherhood!

Technically, I have a few hours left in my thirties. But when my head hits the pillow at the end of today, it will be as a 40-year-old.

As my sweet baby boy drifted off to sleep in my arms last night, my mind flooded with thoughts of what it feels like to leave my thirties behind me.

My thirties were filled with life-changing experiences.

Many were blessings.

Some were not.

I experienced deep loss.

–My uncle, Michael Bernstein, who was a highly regarded and successful business man, died in 2003. He taught me much of what I know about the business world and showered me with blessings.

–I also lost my grandfather, Alec Bryce, in 2006. He was a Detroit firefighter and skilled artist who came to the U.S. as a 3-year-old boy on a ship bound from Scotland. That ship docked at Ellis Island on May 15, 1920. Ninety-two years ago today.

Both of these men had tremendous influence on my life, and I miss them.

My thirties were also filled with great gain.

–I met and married my husband, an amazing man who I’m convinced is perfectly matched for me and I for him.

–I started my own business, following in the footsteps of my dad. I’ve had some incredible opportunities to perform work that I love, around the world. This role has been highly fulfilling for me.

–I’ve discovered true friendship with some remarkable women. I pray that we’ll continue to share in each other’s joys and shoulder each other’s burdens for the rest of our days.

–I gained an additional 12 bubbling nieces and nephews that have enriched my life in many ways.

–In my thirties, I experienced the joy of becoming a mother. I waited a long time for my son and there is nothing that compares to the precious gift of motherhood. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

When I turned 30, I hid because I was embarrassed. I felt old. I refused to tell anyone my age. I became angry if someone discovered it and even more so if they shared it with others.

Today, however, I celebrate. I rejoice that my life is full. I’m thankful for the many blessings I enjoy that are too numerous to count. I’m astounded knowing that there will be more to come in the years ahead!

I also know that there will be loss and disappointment in the years ahead. Through it, my confidence rests in my Creator, who seeks to bring me hope, not harm, all the days of my life.

But today is not that day.

Today, I have much to be thankful for.

Today, I turn 40.

Today is a good day.

Tags: Melanie Bolke, turning 40