I am 40.
Today I am 40. It's a milestone, to be sure. But it's one that's a little harder to face than previous ones (here's why). Rather than wallow or feel sorry for myself, I'm going to practice self care in the form of self love. A friend on Twitter yesterday (when I was still 39) suggested that I mark the end of my 30s by giving myself 39 compliments. I didn't quite get around to it, but I've decided to kick off 40 with 40 compliments for instead. Here goes:
- I'm tough.
- I've got a great head of hair.
- Loyal, almost to a fault (but we're dealing in compliments here, not faults).
- I have low blood pressure (which should not be underestimated as one ages).
- No wrinkles! (Also should not be underestimated)
- I will laugh with you and cry with you, because I really do care.
- I'm a pretty damn good writer.
- I make a mean chili, burrito, and chicken soup (but not all in the same pot).
- My eyes (my best feature) are pretty.
- I work hard.
- I play harder.
- I love big.
- I will never forget your birthday.
- I can bargain shop better than anyone (have I mentioned the $150 Manolos)?
- I'm smart.
- I'm a smart ass (a trait I value in others as much as in myself).
- I'm great at planning things, especially parties.
- I have good taste (subjective, to be sure, but it's my compliment, so I say I do).
- I'm a connector...nothing is more fun than making sure great people know each other.
- I can sew on a button (we're only halfway there, and this is getting hard).
- Getting hard? That's what she said! I can make a TWSS joke with the best of 'em.
- I have a great sense of humor (see above).
- I have soft hands.
- I'm up on current events.
- I genuinely care about people and the world we live in.
- I'm a fast typist.
- I can name all the Supreme Court Justices and every member of the Brady Bunch without Googling it.
- I'm pretty good with makeup (my own...sorry about your face).
- I know all the words to American Pie.
- I love giving gifts and will pick the perfect one just for you.
- I am a champion napper.
- I'm a wonderful auntie to all my littles.
- I've got great manners. I always say please and thank you, and mean it.
- I'm good at putting things in perspective.
- I've got faults, and I'm willing to acknowledge and accept what they are.
- I will always try to see both sides of the story, even if I only agree with one of them.
- I'm a good swimmer (even though I hate the water).
- I can see the beauty in simple things.
- I'm the best friend I can be. I live for my friends. When I die, I want my tombstone to say, simply, "She was a good friend."
- I know who I am, and I love her.
Compliment yourself. Whether you're 40 or 20 or 80 or anywhere in between. Don't wait for a milestone.
Number 41: I make other people (including, ahem, friends made from Twitter) feel valued and appreciated and have impeccable timing with sending just the right DM. <3
ReplyDeleteI love you, Paula.
ReplyDeleteYou are also creative and always smell nice, well I think you do. I've never smelled you after a gym session sooo... ��
ReplyDeleteMy favorite on your list is #22 (see above for the reason why.).
See what I did there?
Happy birthday my dear friend. Hugs in abundance coming to ya.
I love you and our adventures together. Never forget New Orleans, baby!
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