This is 40

I am not a fan of my 20s. Suffered through depression (without realizing it), an unsatisfying relationship, and struggled to find a career path that I could be happy with. My marriage ended the year I turned 30, so at least there was nowhere to go but up, right? Things got better not because they virtually had to, but because I made choices that put my life on a positive trajectory. I went to therapy, sought treatment for anxiety, depression, and ADD and begrudgingly accepted what a complete assclown I had been for the last 10 years. As a result, my 30s were pretty fucking awesome. 

In my 30s, I became a runner. I bought running shoes to guilt myself into using them, picked the hottest day in July, and literally just started running. I made it 3 minutes. Then the next time I went out I lasted 5 minutes. After a few weeks I started tracking miles instead of minutes. Cut to today and I've run 6 half marathons (PR of 1:53), and two marathons (PR of 4:28).

In my 30s, I took up rock climbing. I don't really remember how, but I think my mom suggested that I go with my brother because she was worried about me being lonely (and was spot on with that diagnosis). Before long I was climbing 3 days a week, both for the workout, but also for the camaraderie. And it took a few years, but I finally learned how to lead climb this past summer.

In my 30s, I became a master teacher. Mind you, that's a self appointed title, but after 12+ years teaching 9 subjects across 4 districts in 2 states, I feel I've earned it. Of course, I did get fired from one of those districts, but that's a rant for a different day.

In my 30s, I learned new skills. 3D modeling, crochet, robotics, cross stitch, woodworking, origami, and others. I was able to do this because I inadvertently developed a growth mindset. After growing up as a "gifted" kid, I struggled in college and lacked the coping skills needed to get over hurdles. Hence, a decade of depression.

In my 30s, I got tattoos. No ragrets.

In my 30s, I bought a bus and turned it into an RV. This might end up carved into my tombstone.

In my 30s, I got my cycle endorsement. I don't ride as much as I want, but I love to ride.

In my 30s, I said goodbye to the pest cats that have ever lived.

In my 30s, I became a dog person.

So yeah, my 30s were pretty fucking awesome. The only reason I'm not super geeked about my 40s is because my body decided to fall apart when my cat bit me, and I've still got another 6 weeks left before I can resume normal activity.

Oh yeah, in my 30s I met this clown. Without her, I probably wouldn't have done half the shit on this list. Willing to uproot her life to move a new state, became a step-mom to the previously mentioned 2 best cats ever, brought the joy of dogs into my life, and prepares 95% of my food. Contrary to the picture, she does not iron my clothes, even when I am one handed.

Here's to 40!