Happy 40th Birthday to me…

Wow!  I can not seem to get caught up lately.  My mind is constantly in a tale spin.  Do you ever feel like that?

Of course, it didn’t help to celebrate a milestone birthday.  I have never really enjoyed celebrating my own birthday.  I like to celebrate with others on their birthday, just not my own.

A new decade means so many things.  My bucket list keeps growing and I am not crossing many things off.  The little number 4, just sounds so different.  I can’t really get used to it.  So, I imagine I will continue to fudge my age until my kids call me out.

Last week was my birthday and I did not want a party!  I was very adamant about not wanting to go BIG.  I wanted low key and easy, and not to be the center of attention. This post is just a way to remember my “special” week, and laugh about it for many years to come.

I celebrated by doing a little shopping, going out to lunch , and coming home to many surprises.  Wow!  My friends showered me with presents and special things!  I received a palm tree to recreate Florida in my home, a purse to take to all my sporting events, a pedicure, my favorite flower was delivered, photography accessories, numerous voicemails, cards, and Facebook posts.  I came home to my yard being showered with 40th birthday signs, 40 flowers stuck in my yard, and 40 rocks littering my sidewalk with the names of all the special people in my life.  I was overwhelmed and grateful for friends.

That evening was hectic.  We had 2 football practices, a golf match, and soccer practice.  I had put a meal in the crockpot early in the morning knowing the evening would be busy.  By the time everyone was home and had eaten it was 8:30pm.  The afternoon and evening seemed like any other day, definitely not a 40th birthday celebration.

 I happen to ask my husband if he got me a present or cake.  Big mistake.  Learn from me, you should never have to ask a husband if he has a present for you.

He said “Sure, just give me a minute.”  The entire family was waiting with baited breath to see this present. Let me remind you my kids are 7,9,11, and 12.  Presents are important to them as well. I gave Rob a surprise party, cake, flat screen tv, and speakers for his 40th.

Rob came in with a very small black bag, but no cake.  I saw the label of the bag, “Pillow Talk”  and instantly knew I was in trouble.  I unwrapped this small package and just about broke into tears.  My husband, of 17 years, bought me black, lace lingerie for my 40th birthday.  Yes, I know, you are shocked as well.  Plus he allowed me to open it in front of my kids.  Yes, I know, my kids are 7,9, 11, and 12.

Imagine the horror on my face.  So of course Lexi, 12, says “I know what that is for, _ _ _.”  I think I lost it and cried and went upstairs.  So many thoughts were running around in my head.  I was thinking I was showered earlier today with such thoughtfulness, I assumed it would continue with my own family.  I only wanted to feel appreciated,  loved, and eat cake. I did  not want to be a sex kitten in front of my kids.

My husband quietly put all the kids to bed and we sat in silence for the remainder of the evening.

Needless to say it was quite comical when we celebrated my birthday and his grandma’s birthday over the weekend. Of course the entire family asked me what Rob had given me for my birthday.  My answer was “You’ll have to ask Rob.”  I could not even look any of them  in the eye to explain that I received tiny, black, lace lingerie for my birthday.  Rob was in tears, laughing with embarrassment.  Of course Grandma, 92, thought it was a thoughtful gift and showed we still loved each other.  Really?

So last night, five days after my birthday.  Rob brought home a bottle of wine,fleece pajamas,  a pair of earrings, and a necklace.  I guess I am still celebrating that birthday I really didn’t want to celebrate in the first place!  Lesson learned.

Looking back, it is now very funny! This will be a great story to share when our own kids get married.  I am now looking forward to turning 50 to unwrap my gift.