8 Unavoidable Signs of Aging That I’m Totally Embracing

home insemination Kit

Updated: July 2, 2020

Originally Published: July 11, 2016

Sure, I get it; aging is a fact of life. I’m not bothered about turning 42 later this year. In fact, I take pride in this stage of my life—even if it means investing more time in comfy footwear and vitamin supplements than enjoying late nights out with friends indulging in sushi and cocktails.

What’s truly amusing is how the signs of aging have sneaked up on me. I’m talking about waking up with aches and pains that I swear weren’t there when I went to sleep. Instead of feeling down about these changes, I find myself more intrigued and even a bit entertained by them. Why sulk over something that’s just a natural part of life? Wrinkles, bunions, and early bedtimes? Bring it on! (But let’s not rush things—I might get a bit dizzy if I stand up too quickly!)

Here are eight ways aging has unexpectedly crept into my life that I’m surprisingly okay with (really).

1. High Heels? What High Heels?

I was once a high heel aficionado. Even while commuting through New York City, I refused to wear sneakers, believing they clashed with my pencil skirt. Fast forward 15 years, and I recently visited my doctor for foot pain, emerging with a diagnosis of plantar fasciitis and a bunion. I might have shed a tear as I stood before my shoe collection—will I ever wear those gorgeous heels again? Who knows!

2. Let’s Swap Stories!

I’m all about sharing the aging experience now. Gone are the days of avoiding conversations about stray chin hairs or creaky knees. Now, I find myself bonding with anyone willing to chat about new moles and skin changes. “That’s nothing,” a cashier said as she rolled up her sleeve to show off her scar. We laugh, we roll our eyes, and we swap doctor recommendations. Life is good!

3. One Glass of Wine? Yes, Please!

The “old me”—isn’t that a hilarious phrase?—could handle several glasses of wine, but now, I can barely manage two. It’s not about getting tipsy; it’s the aftermath of a headache and dry mouth that makes me swear off excess. Oh well.

4. Filters vs. Reality: The Ongoing Battle

As a photography enthusiast, I love Instagram, but finding the right filter for my wrinkles and dark circles is a real challenge. One filter may smooth out my skin but make my eyes look like something from a rock band. Instead, I’ve decided to embrace my unfiltered self. I’m not 20 anymore, so why pretend?

5. 9 p.m. Bedtime: The New Normal

Just a couple of years ago, I’d stay up until midnight without a care. Now, I actually plan my sleep like it’s a high-stakes event. A night out with friends means I’ll be home by 10:30 p.m., but I wouldn’t change a thing. There’s nothing quite like snuggling into a cozy bed after a long week!

6. What in the World is That?

Odd nail ridges and mysterious skin spots have become my new companions. I’m reminded of a whack-a-mole game; just when I think I’ve tackled one issue, another pops up! My lips are as dry as ever, cracking and even bleeding at times. I feel like a vampire in flats, armed with tweezers and a sleep mask.

7. Infomercials Are My Jam!

Not all signs of aging are physical. Recently, my husband and I found ourselves mesmerized by an infomercial for a classic CD collection. We laughed and reminisced about old hits, all while I sipped my single glass of wine. Yes, this is what my evenings have come to, and I’m loving it!

8. Speaking in Elder-Speak

I’ve caught myself using phrases my grandparents used, like “going to hell in a handbasket” and “top off my coffee.” The other day, I lamented about a broken washing machine and the state of the world, and I realized how much I sound like my parents. It’s a rite of passage, I suppose, and I’m mastering it!

Aging is inevitable, but I have no complaints. I’m happy and healthy, with a wonderful partner and a roof over my head. Sure, I’ve got new wrinkles, but I’m ready to face whatever comes my way. It feels fantastic to be stepping into my 40s on the right foot!

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Summary: Aging is an unavoidable part of life, but instead of lamenting the changes, I find humor and acceptance in them. From my inability to wear high heels to embracing early bedtimes, I’ve come to appreciate the quirks of growing older. There’s a certain camaraderie in sharing these experiences with others, and I’m learning to navigate this new chapter with grace, humor, and a glass of wine.