middle aged madness

I've just finished a booked called Mutton by India Knight. I really enjoyed it and must admit to giggling quite a few times whilst reading. It's a story of a 46 year old divorced mother of three who starts to question what's 'age appropriate' when you're in your 40s. I am a little embarrassed at how much I related to this book, which is essentially an honest exploration of what it means to be a female hitting 'middle age' and what happens when the builders stop whistling at you, lines start to appear on your face and you start to question what you can wear so that you still look cool without being 'mutton'.

This book resonated with me because it's a strange phase of life that I'm currently journeying into. I'm not really 'young' anymore, and while I'm totally okay with that, I am actually quite content and happy with myself, I don't want to be 'old'.  At some point in the next decade, no matter how fit and healthy, I will cross that line of looking middle aged, and I admit I don't like the prospect of becoming invisible. But then again I don't want to become obsessed with looking great no matter what cost. 

Once again, as always, it's all about balance isn't it? About being happy with yourself and surrounding yourself with honest, like minded people who 'get' you and your quirks and just enjoy the here and now and making the most of what you have.

What to do for the big 4. 0.

I'm at a bit of a loss really. About turning 40 next month. It doesn't really bother me to be honest, but I do find it a bit bizarre that I will soon be officially 'middle aged'. I'm not really sure if I've ever given being 40 much thought. It's a big milestone, one that has always felt so far away in the future that it's not been worth thinking about. When I was younger I could never 'see' beyond 30. I guess I thought that by 40 I'd be 'sorted'. Content, settled, boring (?)...

But there is an expectation, a pressure, that you should do something to mark the occasion, and that is where I'm stuck. 

I have set a budget for the Big Day, and it seems these are my choices...

Ideas for celebrating a 40th:

A skydive

A party at home 

A party at a venue

A weekend away (with friends or family or husband)

A trip somewhere new/exciting

A real pair of Christian Louboutin Pigalle stilettos (v tempted)

A diamond pendant/necklace

A pair of diamond earrings

A meal at a flashy restaurant (with husband)
A painting

Ummm.... I just can't decide. Actually, I can. I want to be selfish. I want something for me. I want the diamond necklace! I was going for the designer heels, but have changed my mind. I want to blow my budget on a keepsake that I can wear everyday, that will last forever, that I can pass on to mini me one day.

Having a party is just not my thing. I know that's anti-social, but it's just too much work and time and effort - and it cuts into my pressie money (!). Besides, Mr S and I often drink and reminisce to all our favourite retro tunes, so, do I need to subject my friends to that on a larger scale? Nah.

A lunch and glass of champers with friends, perhaps. Or informal drinks one night? Yes, that would be nice. Low key, that's me!

But a diamond is forever. A girls best friend. Yes. Choice made. Thanks for helping chaps! 



Shoes, parties, holidays, adventure... what would you choose? all of the above?!

comfort v style

I want to be a cool looking 'older' lady.

I will not wear shapeless clothes and have a clone 'hair cap'.

 

When does it happen?  When do you make the shift to thinking about comfort over style?  Not just with clothes and shoes, but with haircuts and even furniture?

Is it a sign of giving up, having low self esteem, or just being content to just blend in to the background and not caring any more. Or is it just age?  Do you hit 45, 50, 60 and say, righteo, time to cut off my long locks and turn into a short haired, masculine looking, boring clone, with 'comfortable shoes'! (and ugly sofas)? I feel sorry for the partners of these people, not if they've both 'gone to seed' but if one is drab and the other still looks like they make an effort.

I often wonder if some people just don't look in the mirror. They can't. Can they? Do they see what I see, well obviously not.

I don't mean we all have to be totally effected, high maintenance, fashion addicts with gorgeous homes.  I mean acceptable. Nice. Normal. After all, it's not hard is it, to look okay.  Just avoid pigging out on the wrong foods, don't sit around permanently getting flabby, go for a walk, laugh, have sex at least once a week and wear nice clothes (and shoes). Easy. No excuses.  Okay - well maybe when you're 80.  But not yet - not in your 30/40s.