While I got my hair done, covering my natural (gray) highlights, not to make myself look younger, but to sport a hair color I enjoy. Styling my hair made me feel fresh and full of life – not old.

Over a lovely wine date with my cousin, as we talked about having grown into empowered women, who were raised by extremely strong women. How we have grown up, established ourselves, and learned our worth – but we never referred to ourselves as old.

On my annual casino birthday date with my mom, having fun playing penny machines and betting fifty cents in the hopes of winning a few dollars. Laughing, celebrating, reminiscing – but not acting old (unless you count the fact that you have to be an adult to get into the casino!)

Celebrating my birthday at my sister’s house, eating a very special birthday cake, baked and decorated with a double dose of magic by my nephew, who, when I asked if he thought I was old, said “No. We’re all old”. Then again as the nephews climbed all over me, using me as a ladder while simultaneously reading books, and having a few tickles. I embraced my lively, happy, connected family – and not for a second did I feel old.

When I went to bed early, with Nathan joking to me about going to bed like an old lady, I saw it as a treat. After a jampacked weekend of fun, I was tired, and wanted to treat myself to a solid night’s sleep so I could get up and enjoy the next day – my first day of 42. Maybe that’s an old lady move, but I see it as wise woman’s treat to herself on her birthday - so again, not old!