On Turning 40 and Celebrating Happy Finds (Bakerella Cake Pop Holidays Video)
I turned 40 years old this month. Gosh, that feels like such a significant number when heard in the context of “over the hill”. In my teens, the big 40 felt like such a far distance away. I had my vision of where I wanted my life to go and what I’d be doing. The dream I had for myself was to finish medical school and be serving the Peace Corps on assignment in Africa, somewhere. In between my life in Africa, I wanted to pursue music composition, art, literature and climb mountains.
Food, gardening, cooking, photography and blogging were never on the list. In fact, blogging and internet never existed back then. Cell phones—what?
I never reached the shores of Africa (yet), nor did I ever accept my acceptance to Yale. Writing a Broadway musical never happened and I’m so currently out of shape that even hiking up my local trails is traumatic on my lungs. Now my days consist of photographing client work with Todd, plenty of traveling, coming home to two very happy dogs, writing our food blog and digging in the garden dirt.
Though I’m far from my high school graduation goal list, I’ve never felt more successful, content, balanced, happy, in love and most importantly, young than I do this month.
I’ve had my fair share of challenges and struggles, but this 40-year-old-over-the-hill thing feels like just the beginning for me. If anyone were to tell me that I have now reached the pinnacle of my life, I’d say that they’re far from right. All the mistakes and failures I’ve experienced during my thirties made me even more ready for my fourties. This next decade of wisdom, new beginnings, friendships, love and calmness is really what I’ve been yearning for.
The one consistent dream I had when I was in high school and that am still living today is that I’m pursuing what I love, what makes me happy and with the people that matter most to me. I’m reminded of this every day when I wake up, do my daily work and connect with all of you.
Thank you all for making my life so complete and making my turn to 40 so exciting.
happy days. xoxo
-diane
So much of what makes me happy is seeing other people doing what they love so well. These are some of my happy finds that keep me young in mind and spirit:
Sweet Jennie’s yummy brown butter pumpkin seed cookies remind me that Halloween is around the corner.
and other sweet Jenny has a new cookbook out! and a new baby boy. Talk about busy.
and so do the beautifully humble trio of Veronica, Vangie & Yvette ! I mean a cookbook, not a baby.
Jessica’s brussels sprouts breakfast hash topped with fried egg is omg
These funny frankenstein cookies are ridiculously cute
This grilled turkey and brie cranwich recipe and photo is killer. Again, omg.
Kristen has a gorgeous new blog design. It’s beautiful and happy place.
And finally, everything that Bakerella makes keeps me young and smiling. Here’s the cookbook promo that Todd and I produced for her new Cake Pop Holidays Cookbook. Isn’t Angie and her cake pops just the cutest thing ever?! Has anyone made a cake pop of her “dork wave” yet? I’ll buy the first 4 dozen.
Happy birthday Diane! I love your attitude on life. That your next decade will be of of wisdom, new beginnings, friendships, love and calmness is something everyone will wish for going into their 40’s!
Happy Birthday Diane *a little late sorry* Your HS list does sound wonderful but to be honest your current life sounds quite amazing to me 🙂 I am so glad to have met you and Todd in Disney, you inspire me so much! Hugs!
Diane, Feliz Cumpleanos!!! Know we at Muy Bueno adore you and Todd and I enjoyed reading all about your turning 40. May the days ahead be filled with lots of love, peace, good health, and delicious food of course. Since you love to travel so much, please know you always have a home away from home in my little casita in Germany. Loved the video and those pops of course, great work! Thank you for the sweet mention, besos! Hope to see you in November. Abrazos!
Happy Birthday!!!…and many blessings and celebrations during your birthday month!!!
Hugs!!
Happy birthday! Life is just beginning! I loved my forties and hope yours are as wonderful in their unique way. 🙂
The happiest of birthdays Diane – your light shines so bright!!
Happy Birthday!!! I hope you continue to celebrate for the rest of the month.
Happy birthday Diane, here’s to another fabulous dacade! x
Happiest of birthdays to you! Sending you a big hug from Florida! xo
Happy Birthday! I can’t wait to see what you accomplish in your 40’s! I know good things are ahead! xoxo
Happy birthday, my friend. I’m hitting 40 next year and I kind of can’t wait, although I’m thrilled to see what I can accomplish before next October.
You are such a wonderful, giving, accomplished, talented person. I’m proud to know you! (Thanks, btw, for the shoutout. Glad you like the new design!)
Much love!
Happy birthday, Diane! As someone who’s gone way past 40, I can tell you that 40 is the beginning of the most creative time of your life. Enjoy! xo
HAPPY BIRTHDAY Diane! Wishing you many blessings now and into your future. Thanks for all the wonderful recipes and making us feel so welcomed to your site. Every time I visit time seems to stand still I don’t want to leave this place. Always something that inspires me to make something new or revamp an old recipe. Your photography is the very best. Ciao!
happy birthday!
Happiest Birthday, Diane!
Ohhhhh, Dianne! Happy Birthday! I know you have a most stunning decade ahead.
<3