My 40th Birthday

Yesterday was my 40th birthday.  I have been dreading this day for about a month.  I was going to be 40.  What have I accomplished?  I have two amazing children, a Master’s degree, a great job, and a handful of great friends.  But, what about that bucket list I made when I turned 30?  I had several items left to do… ride in a hot air balloon, visit Las Vegas, get a tattoo…

I was worried about turning 40 for nothing… it was one of my best birthdays ever – for a myriad of reasons.

About three weeks ago, a friend at work asked if I wanted to go with her to Las Vegas on a trip she won for her contract house.  Of course, I said yes.

We stayed at the Venetian and had a marvelous time.

I am the one who usually does the party planning at work – I was worried no one would do anything for me, but I was wrong.  My co-workers and friends made my work day a blast!

They surprised me with Chipotle for lunch!

I even got an amazing cupcake from a super-sweet couple.

I also received flowers from my bestie.

The kids had a “party” for me at the apartment.

But, the highlight of my day… while at football practice for Bo, the Ohio Cavern’s hot air balloon team was checking over their equipment after an inspection.

Tim, the pilot, let us come close to the balloon and eventually allowed the kids watching to “help” by being weight in the basket.  He took the kids up about 10 feet in the air.  Which – made my day – seeing the MY kids full of awe and wonder at the chance to be in a hot air balloon.  But then, Tim asked, “Any big kids want a ride?”  I was first in line.

Awhile back, I jokingly told someone that I wondered if I could fit in a hot air balloon ride before my birthday.  Never dreaming I would have the opportunity to do so.

On my 40th birthday, I – Julia Gibson – had an amazing chance to go up in a hot air balloon.

So, in the last two weeks… I was able to check off all but one last item on my “bucket list before 40.”  In the last 10 years – I had children.  I earned my Master’s degree.  I traveled to Las Vegas.  And, last night, on my 40th birthday evening, I was able to ride in a hot air balloon.  What didn’t I get done?  A tattoo.  Any regrets?  None.

I have already started my bucket list for 50… #1 is a tattoo, and then… who knows!  The sky is the limit.  I am happy, healthy, have an amazing family and friends. I am a lucky, lucky girl.   I am excited to see what the next ten years brings.

Besides, 40 looks damn good on me.  Here’s to 50.