How I celebrated my 40th birthday in 10 easy steps

Okay, that's a little bit simplistic but I want to (try) keep things short and to the point.

1. I agonised about inviting friends.

name tags made with Artsyville washi tape

2. I ordered food from a caterer. For those who are interested, chicken biryani. YUM! My favourite meal :) And cakes from Pick and Pay. You guys, this business of fancy cakes is way overrated. One cake at PnP = R45. Boom!

one of the three tables (this one had the best light :))

3. I decided on a blue/ green theme. This was the fun part.

Same way as with the kids' party when I went around the house pulling all green, yellow and brown items, I did the same thing and went around the house pulling all the blue and green things together.



4. I spent a lot of time on party favours. I know it's not necessary but it's my thing, okay? I knew that everybody who turned up would be very special friends and I wanted to honour them, so I put together a (very nice) party bag with 3 of my favourite things (can you guess what those are?) plus a hand-written and individual thank-you card.


5. I had a guest book. The same one I started at my 30th and promptly forgot about for the last 10 years. I love this idea because I love love LOVE reading what people wrote (as you know, cards are a dying art form but this friend wrote me the most beautiful card ever). Thanks Caren!

6. I think everyone had a good time. I certainly did. My one friend (this one below) sent me the longest, best SMS ever saying what a lovely, diverse group of friends I have and it was SO interesting talking to them.



7. I only took photos when Caren reminded me to do so :) which means I was in the moment and very present. Then I whipped around with my camera.

Mrs FF took lots of pics - probably more than I did!

8. There were lots of presents and two gift vouchers! I must tell you, I also received a pair of pyjamas which I've been LIVING in ever since we returned from Ballito.

 9. I remembered right at the end to ask D to take photos of me with the kids, and then Connor and I went on a photo walk. That night I hit 10 000 steps :)
 


10. Of course I celebrated my actual birthday in Ballito. Best decision ever. I thoroughly recommend it. Being right at the beach is so restorative!

My mother was with me on my birthday for the first time since I was 17........... yes, that's a long time, so that was very special. Incidentally, I realised when my father phoned that he still calls me "Poppet". I had a moment when I was thinking, "Really? Should a 40-year-old woman still be called poppet?" but it's so fun and always makes me smile, so I guess it's a yes. What does your father call you?

All in all, a great birthday!

And thank you all again for all the birthday wishes and unexpected presents!!!!

I was/ am very blessed.

This was my word for the day on the 6th.

Here is your word for today:

Verse:       Isaiah 26:1

In that day, everyone in the land will sing this song: 'Our city is strong! We are surrounded by the walls of God's salvation.'

- God's plan for you is that you would know His strength in your life.
- He wants to bring you to this place.
- It's a place where you know that you are surrounded by Him.
- May you be strong, knowing that He surrounds you with salvation!

PRAYER: Lord, I pray that You will bring me to that place where I know that You have strengthened me and surrounded me with the hope that only comes from You. Amen.

Thank you, I receive that!

#shine
#marciaturns40

Next year, I'm going back to small lunches again! Otherwise, ONE very big celebration like a holiday :) (this is how it starts)

I can honestly say I have absolutely NO issues with being 40. None.

What is the alternative? Death?

I'm grateful for a healthy body that can dance and put 16-year-olds to shame (although it takes me longer to recover but shhh, they don't know that), that does whatever I need it to do, that can go on photowalks to see God's amazing beauty and that can chase my kids around in the garden til they squeal with delight.

I praise you, Lord, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made Ps 139:14

Do you have issues with ageing?