For me turning 40 was just another day/year. Never gave it much thought. At around 41 was when my body started reminding me of my age. All the fun I had up until then started catching up. Knee problems, tendinitis, liver issues....but as far as I'm concerned those are reminders of a good time. Had the knee repaired at 43, dropped weight at 44 and eased up on the alcohol. Tendinitis is the only thing holding me back now.
My wife turned 40 3 years ago. We got married when she was 24 I was 28.
We've had a great marriage with a ton of fun. But after she hit the big 40, things really changed for the better. It's like a huge weight lifted off of her shoulders. So relaxed now. Like she's finally realized that her life is stabile and it's ok to enjoy things. We even started backpacking this year, 5 years ago she wouldn't have even considered it. We also realized it's better to have a few really good friends chilling on a beach with some cocktails than raging with a hundred acquaintances in a canyon or a sandbar. Chasing the dollar is a thing of the past too. I'm a 45 year old mechanic. I've realized that unless I hit the Lotto or have a long lost rich uncle leave me a fortune, I'll never be rich. So, I decided it was time to stop trying to keep up with the Joneses and be happy with what I have.
In conclusion, turning 40 for us was just another day. I believe our 40's have been our best years yet.
From left to right Jodi 48(wife's best friend), Robyn 45 (sister in law) and my wife Brenda at 42. She has a shirt that reads "this is what 40 and bad ass looks like". At 39 she was wearing t shirts on the beach too embarrassed of what others might think.
Eli, I've never seen or talked to you before. I'm sorry someone broke your heart, but from what I gather it was his loss. Turn 40 with you chin up, take all the lessons you've learned and put them to use. Love you for you, love what you do and where you do it. Life is awesome once you realize it's not about what you don't have.
Happy early birthday


“Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference in the world. The US military doesn’t have that problem.”