If you're in casting don't ask

Well I did it, I went ahead and turned 40. I was thinking about not doing it and then just said what the F...it can't be that bad. My friend Julie did it in November and she looks amazing! No one would ever guess she's 40.

In my head I still have visions of what I thought 40 meant when I was 20; polyester pants, body parts slipping, a "mom" hairdo. Gratefully I'm of the new generation that believes 40 is the new 30. My girlfriends back home all subscribe to this belief as well. I am so lucky to have them.

As part of my birthday celebration Julie cashed in some airline miles so I could come back to Portland and celebrate with the Bella's. It was such a thoughtful gift. I got to spend time with my mom and Rance's parents and of course the girls. I told very few people of my trip to Portland, I knew I would have only limited time available and wouldn't possibly see everyone. I'm sorry to have missed so many people but also grateful that I got to spend quality time with family and the Bellas without rushing around to a ton of different places. They were so damn thoughtful and wonderful to be with.

I got to go with my mom to her square dance lesson. What a blast and a great group of people for her to be with. They were all so ridiculously nice. Unfortunately, I missed her graduation by one week, otherwise I would have been able to see her dance in full square dancing costume. I bet she looks adorable.

I got to see Joni for all of about 30 minutes, but boy in that time the energy sparks were flying. She is such an inspirational woman! The ideas and encouragement she provides..AHH! I just love her.

So here's to The Bella's and 26 years of friendship. Thank you for helping to make my transition into my 40's an easy one. You're next Linda...and you look mah-ve-lus!