Can you believe it? I’ve officially crossed over the hill to 41 years old! My birthday celebrations are in full swing as I reflect on making it through another year.

Where did the time go? It feels like just yesterday I was a young 20-something embarking on my career and adult life. Now here I am, two decades later, with a lot more responsibility but also a lot more wisdom. They say with age comes perspective, and I have to agree. While hitting this milestone birthday makes me feel nostalgic for my youth, I also feel grateful for the life I’ve built and the person I’ve become.

My birthday festivities so far have been low-key but meaningful. My husband surprised me with breakfast in bed and beautiful flowers. The kids made me adorable homemade cards that I will treasure forever. I enjoyed phone calls from my parents and siblings, filled with memories of birthdays past and well wishes for the year ahead.

The big shindig happens this weekend. My best friends are throwing a 1970s-themed roller skating party in my honor – talk about blast from the past! I can’t wait to lace up my quads, pop on some rollerskates, and hit the rink. Maybe I’ll even show off a few dance moves from my childhood if I’m feeling daring! Good food, great music, and quality time with my closest friends – that’s my ideal celebration.

As I reflect today on hitting 41, I’m choosing to see it as an opportunity, not an end. Though society may joke about being “over the hill,” I know some of life’s best adventures can happen in your 40s, 50s, 60s, and beyond. I’m ready to embrace the years ahead with an open mind and heart. This birthday marks not an ending, but just another beginning in the wonderful journey of life.

Here’s to 41 years down and many more still to come! The celebrations are just getting started.