8 Unavoidable Signs of Aging That I’m Embracing

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Aging is a certainty, and I’m fully aware of that as I prepare to celebrate my 42nd birthday later this year. Surprisingly, I find myself relishing this stage of life, even if it means I spend more time acquiring comfy shoe inserts and vitamin supplements than indulging in late-night sushi and cocktails with friends.

What truly baffles me, though, is how the signs of aging have snuck up on me. I’m talking about waking up with aches and pains that I could’ve sworn didn’t exist the night before. Yet, instead of feeling down about it, I’m more fascinated (and a little amused) by the aging process than I am disheartened. Why sulk over something that’s a natural part of life? Bring on those wrinkles and bunions! Well, just not too fast; I still get a bit dizzy if I stand up too quickly!

Here are eight ways aging has surprisingly crept into my life that I’m actually okay with:

1. High Heels Are a Thing of the Past.
   For as long as I can remember, I adored high heels. Even during my days commuting in New York City, I refused to wear anything but stylish shoes, even if it meant walking several blocks. Fast forward to a recent doctor’s appointment about foot pain, and I was hit with a diagnosis of plantar fasciitis—who knew? Now, I find myself staring mournfully at a closet full of heels I may never wear again.
2. Sharing Our Aging Stories.
   Mind out of the gutter! I’m talking about the newfound camaraderie that comes with discussing skin changes, dental work, and yes, even our increased flatulence (let’s be honest, we all do it). I now find myself bonding over skin spots with the cashier at the grocery store, laughing and exchanging recommendations for dermatologists.
3. One Glass of Wine Is Perfectly Adequate.
   Reflecting on the “younger me” who could easily enjoy multiple glasses of wine, I’ve come to realize that I can barely handle more than one or two now. It’s not about embarrassing stories or stumbling; it’s the aftermath of a throbbing headache and cottonmouth that I simply can’t bear anymore.
4. Filters vs. Reality: An Ongoing Battle.
   As a photography enthusiast, I initially loved Instagram, but now I often wish for a filter that can soften my wrinkles without turning me into a raccoon. It seems like every filter has its drawbacks, so I’ve decided to embrace my natural look instead! After all, I’m not 20 anymore, and that’s okay.
5. Embracing an Early Bedtime.
   Gone are the days of staying up until 11 p.m. Now, I find great joy in planning for sleep, often hitting the hay by 9 p.m. On weekends, my husband and I might stay out until 10:30 p.m., which feels quite adventurous these days. There’s something comforting about cozying up in bed and giving my tired body the rest it craves.
6. Surprise Skin Changes.
   New skin spots and nail ridges seem to pop up out of nowhere, much like the whack-a-mole game from my childhood. I may have dealt with these oddities in my younger years, but now they seem to have multiplied. If it’s not one thing, it’s another—like my lips, which are still recovering from winter, cracked and dry.
7. Infomercials Are Surprisingly Enjoyable.
   Aging has also brought a newfound appreciation for infomercials. Just the other night, my husband and I found ourselves captivated by a CD collection ad, reliving songs from our youth. It was like a mini-concert in our living room, complete with air guitar solos and comfy slippers.
8. Using “Elder-Speak.”
   I’m now catching myself using phrases my grandparents used, like “going to hell in a handbasket.” Just the other day, I expressed my woes about a broken washing machine while sipping coffee and discussing the state of the world with friends. It’s funny how these expressions have slipped into my vocabulary so easily!

Aging is unavoidable, but I have no complaints. I’m content, healthy, and grateful for my loving husband and home. Sure, I’ve got a few more wrinkles than I did a year ago, but I’m ready to face whatever comes my way. I’m genuinely happy with the skin I’m in, and it feels great to embrace my 40s with open arms.

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Summary:

Embracing aging can be a joyful experience filled with humor and acceptance of our physical changes. From the challenges of wearing heels to the delight of infomercials, it’s important to appreciate life’s journey, even as we navigate the signs of growing older.