Today is my birthday. I’m officially 39 years old which means this year will be one of lasts. The last time I can say I’m in my 30’s. The last time I can consider myself a young mother. The last time I…..well its the last time for a lot of things.

For a moment, I had a brief panic attack about what July 2020 would bring. For some weird reason, society makes it seem that women turning 40 is our midlife crisis moment. And of course I googled every article and bucket list and Pinterest post about the struggles of this new upcoming decade.

But I don’t want to feel like the person that just goes to work, comes home to make dinner, says prayers, then off to bed to get a good night’s sleep only to repeat the process. I’m going to enjoy these next 365 days to the fullest.

Documenting my “𝑱𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒏𝒆𝒚 𝒕𝒐 40“ I’m sure will be interesting. I’m on a workout plan as we’re preparing for a Disney Cruise during Labor Day weekend. My goal is to just look as fly as I can be while in a swimsuit. I want to take multiple pictures of this experience as I put in blood, sweat, and tears making this trip possible for us. So I’m also looking for a new camera. My mom was the family photographer and recently I was given her 35 mm Cannon Camera and camera bag which has sparked an interest in a new hobby for me. During my undergraduate days, I took a photography class and learned how to develop in an actual darkroom. Now do you believe I’ll be 40 soon JBut seriously, I worked with actual film and chemicals. And learned about actual f-stops. So I know the basics. And living in forever spring/summer location, I’m sure I’ll get some amazing shots.

And we’ve still have the BUCKET LIST!!! Although the bucket list was created for our Mommy Daughter Adventures, I’ll try to add some Kelli events while on those trips. Experiences outweigh the desire for things these days. If you’ve been following the blog for some time, you know it’s #justthetwoofus. My “𝑱𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒏𝒆𝒚 𝒕𝒐 40“ will of course include some parenting tips and will definitely include some self care. I want to focus on 3 key reflections; at least for now.

1. Make decisions for myself
2. Stop feeling guilty
3. Live out Barbara’s Blueprint

I hope you join me on this adventure. I’m still a little overwhelmed with whats to come, but truly blessed to be able to see it.

~Kelli