I am thrilled to be 40 just as all 3 of my children head off to the same school (I’m gonna enjoy those 2 years!). I shared on Instagram how there is this sense in this stage of life of shedding years of self doubt and self criticism and perfectionism and leaning into who God made me to be. So freeing.

I recently wrote about what I have learned in 40 years, am still learning, and that I’m leaning into in this next decade. I have been celebrating all month long with my favorite people and isn’t that just it? Life is full of complications and heartbreak and brokenness but EVEN MORE it is full of love and overcoming and growth and JOY.

SO, CELEBRATE.

Celebrating does not have to equal elaborate parties.

Celebrating can mean a hike with your favorite person that includes sitting by the river and dreaming. A pastry at a local bakery. Cupcakes decorated by your kids. A farmers market stroll taking in all the color and beauty. A girls night out. Ice cream for lunch. A movie marathon. And not just celebrating birthdays, but also a new job or sale, the end of summer, or paying off that debt.

Here’s to more simple celebration, friends!