Summer was great time to celebrate a birthday. I should know, as I am a proud summer baby. Although I am technically no longer a “baby” – it doesn’t mean that I can’t celebrate with the same gusto as I did in my youth.

By the way, I turned forty-three.

Yes, forty-three.

That is not a typo.

This year marks the third time I have had the number four as the first digit of my two digit age.

In case you haven’t realized it already, I am quite open and honest about this fact.

Oh, and I guess you can say I am proud too.

By the way, I don’t plan on changing my stance anytime soon.

The following is a list of some reasons why:

1. The Freedom

There is definitely something very freeing about “owning it.” I can be quite forgetful, so I never have to worry about what I told each person in my life. I am too old for that. My kids know I am going to be forty-three. So does my hairdresser. I am also pretty certain the mailman knows the truth as well.

2. “I thought you were so much younger!”

Let’s be honest, some of the people that utter those words are completely full of it. Newsflash: I don’t care! It is a wonderful thing to hear! I definitely believe when you are truthful, you set the precedent for continued positivity.

3. Networking and Friendships

I definitely do not discriminate in terms of age. However, it really is a nice feeling to meet others with whom you shared the same decades with. Together, you can laugh at all the pop culture references that 90’s kids just wouldn’t get. You can talk childhood and friendship. You can form some great bonds.

4. I am my children’s role model

Growing up, I was so insecure. I was desperate to fit in. I felt as if I could never be myself. I struggled for many years. My kids don’t seem to mind that I was born in the 1970’s, and they better not if they want to continue to have a roof over their heads. Yes, they are stuck with this old lady. One of my main goals is to raise children who are comfortable in their own skin. I want them to feel secure no matter age or gender. It is a tough one, but I will try.

5. I am only lying to myself anyway

I have never been the greatest at telling fibs. At the end of the day, it is my own face I stare at in the mirror. Wrinkles, cellulite and everywhere in between, there is nowhere for me to hide. I know the physical signs of age are there. It won’t stop me from feeling young. For that, I have a bit of control. I am working on a cleaner diet. I also realize I am the only one that can get my lazy butt off the couch. I can, and will, do it. I just need some time to put away the clothes that are currently hanging on my treadmill.

6. Getting older ain’t that bad!

I swear! I might be jinxing myself, but it really isn’t. Growing up, middle age seemed ancient. “Over the hill” was a phrase we used so commonly back in the day. They say that with age comes wisdom, but there is also more to gain. I am definitely more confident. I enjoy my life more. I have learned not to take things for granted. My “one day” mentality is starting to fade. “One day” has become now. I try my best to live in the present. I may not have all my ducks in a row yet. I may not “have it all.” However, I lived through forty plus years of tragedy and triumphs. I refuse to pack it in just yet. I am just getting started.