30 to 40
November 20, 2008 · Print This Article
We all have preconceived notions of where our lives will be once we hit certain magical ages. We have hopes, plans and goals that coincide with dates on the calendar…some we accomplish and others we miss the mark by a long shot. In 30 days I will be facing the end of my 30’s. (Holy, what?!) And as much as I’ve been preparing for this occasion for the past several years, I can’t help but do a mental check list of where I am and where I thought I might be.
It’s no mystery that some things we can change and others we must accept. But what’s left will hopefully inspire us to live our lives to fullest. So in honor of leaving my third decade behind I’ve decided to celebrate with a 30 day countdown to-do list.
For the next month, each day until I hit the big 4-0 (which by the way, is NOT the new 20!) I will run, be free, and embrace the following…
Take a field trip to The Pleasure Chest
Make out under the stars
Swing…on a swing set, not with swingers
Play Twister
Wear my shortest skirt and highest heels…in public
Write a letter, and actually mail it
Climb a tree…
and a rock
Volunteer
Take a nap outside
Dance naked in the living room
Watch a sunset…
and a sunrise
Learn a sexy phrase in a foreign language
Skip on the beach barefooted
Visit Dr. Verbin
Embrace the fetal position with a box of Kleenex
Watch Doctor Zhivago
Have photos taken…nekkid
Purge past mementoes that no longer serve a purpose
Meditate for an entire hour
Buy a plane ticket
Join the Bar Method
Lick the filling out of Twinkie
Drink Dom Perignon straight from the bottle
Create a budget
Fast for 24-hours
Spend an entire day loving myself…mind, body and spirit
Make S’mores over an open fire
Host a fabulous party and celebrate with those who make me who I am!
All things considered (because life isn’t always a bowl of cherries) my life is pretty darn spectacular! I most certainly couldn’t have imagined the twists and turns of my journey thus far, but I am filled with anticipation and excitement for the future and amazing memories of the past. The sands of time can’t be erased so we may as well learn to embrace them, right? Right!
Tell me, oh lovely Eve visitors…what’s on your to-do list? Are you fearful of impending significant Birthdays or are you rolling out the red carpet? If time or money weren’t an issue and you could do anything your little heart desired, what would it be? And lastly, what will you do today to celebrate life?
On 11/20/08 at 2:02 am
Evan said:
I feel that, at 28, I am a bit young to have a whole lot to say about the whole 40 yr. milestone. (And I’ll drink to that, for now!)
But I will say that I have heard women get much drier (in a certain area) after a certain age.
Well, as a man, I have to say that the only thing on me that has gotten drier with age is my sense of humor.
I am sure it will become so dry that one day it will look like a raisin (as will other parts of me).
On 11/20/08 at 2:05 am
Evan said:
And, for the record, my sense of humor is still quite moist. We have a long way to go girls! And amen to that.
On 11/20/08 at 6:40 am
Karri said:
UMMMMM…
Never fear, Evan. It’s quite the opposite actually.
On 11/20/08 at 7:06 am
Evan said:
I feel like I am on a water slide of happiness.
On 11/20/08 at 7:14 am
Karri said:
You have no idea…unless you do? Which considering your assumption, I think you might not.
Might I suggest a snorkel and mask if you ever choose to venture into the pool o’ love.
On 11/20/08 at 7:51 am
Evan said:
Well, just to clarify that I am not completely clueless: when I said “after a certain age”, I actually meant well, well beyond the age of forty or even fifty (i.e. post-menopause).
Also, I know where the clitoris is: right in the center of the lower back, directly above the ass.
See? Isn’t it refreshing to know there are still men out there who actually have some chops? (Don’t flatter me, please.)
But, this article and our current reply-alog does bring an interesting question to my mind: ‘How old was the oldest woman I ever slept with?’
Wanna take a guess?
(I actually am not sure I know the answer to this one. Hm. Do you think it would be rude to call someone up who I haven’t seen in several years and ask: “You may not remember me, but we fu**ed in ummm… 2002… maybe 2003. How old were you at that point?” That wouldn’t be rude, would it?)
On 11/20/08 at 8:42 am
Karri said:
WHEW! I was so afraid that I was going to have to give you an anatomy lesson.
If you were 22′ish when you did the deed with the older lady, I’d guess she was 10 up on you. That feels about right, but you should call her just to be sure.
On 11/20/08 at 4:33 am
~Lori~ said:
Well I am 40, you have to treat each day as brand new one, and see where it leads you, with an open mind, heart and soul… Find the beauty in the smallest things… Never take a moment for granted if you can’t help it.
If I had the time and money, I would travel, see all the beautiful things this world has to offer, besides meeting I’m sure some awesome new people in the big vast world… leave no stone unturned.
Oh and on a personal note… our friend Evan and his little comment, “But I will say that I have heard women get much drier (in a certain area) after a certain age.”
Better think again darlin’ ;p
On 11/20/08 at 6:42 am
Karri said:
HA! “Better think again darlin’”
DITTO!!!
On another note…I would absolutely travel more also. I don’t want to wait until I can’t see/hear the sights!
On 11/20/08 at 7:06 pm
Kroll said:
Well, my great-grandmother traveled the world into her 80’s and only stopped due to her bad knees!
On 11/20/08 at 5:00 pm
MyPinkNir. said:
‘Dryer’ (eyeroll) Um.. another horny man wanting to talk pussy with women.
On 11/20/08 at 5:20 pm
Karri said:
Stick around, he’s harmless…and quite entertaining.
On 11/20/08 at 5:24 pm
Trista said:
“another horny man wanting to talk pussy with women…”
But I am also pretty sure that is a relatively accurate assessment of Evan. ;P
On 11/20/08 at 4:41 am
lisaq said:
What a great list girl! 40 was hard for me, but I have to say that every year since has only gotten better! Have a fabulous 30 days and enjoy yourself!
On 11/20/08 at 6:43 am
Karri said:
Thanks, Lisa
I started saying “I’m nearly 40″ when I turned 37…I’m hoping it helps once it’s actually true.
On 11/20/08 at 5:32 am
Cassie said:
what’s on your to-do list? OHHHHHH….. there is a whole blog dedicated to this somewhere
the big thing…TRAVEL, to many different places with many different people
the small things….put down smokes for good, learn to appreciate what it is I have and what it is I can do
Are you fearful of impending significant Birthdays or are you rolling out the red carpet? I am NEVER fearful of birthdays….I will be 35 this year and am grateful…every year after 30 is a blessing (I thought I’d never make it to 30)
If time or money weren’t an issue and you could do anything your little heart desired, what would it be? Right now, at this moment, I’d be a traveling bitch…going to see all my friends that live far away
And lastly, what will you do today to celebrate life? same thing I always do…..appreciate each breathe!
On 11/20/08 at 6:45 am
Karri said:
AWE! I love your lists, Cass.
The smoking thing is on mine also. Damnit!
I hope the west coast is on your travel plans.
On 11/20/08 at 7:08 am
Cassie said:
yes ma’am….the west coast most definitely is on my list!!!
I have to dive in the Pacific at least ONCE before I die!!! lol
On 11/20/08 at 7:11 am
Karri said:
That’s so funny! I look at it almost everyday, but I’m not about to stick more than a toe or two in it.
Its freakin’ cold, you know?
On 11/20/08 at 7:16 am
Cassie said:
yes, I have been told by my grandmother that it is VERY cold, but I want to dive in the Pacific and Atlantic and maybe the Indian oceans (but not the Arctic or Anarctic—that’s just TOOOOOO cold lol)
Plus there are no less than 5 or 10 people that live in CA, OR, and WA that I would like to hang out with!!!
On 11/20/08 at 7:34 am
Karri said:
If you insist on the Pacific be sure to do it in CA. Otherwise you might lose your limbs from the temps in our Northern neighbors waters.
Just a tip from a girl who refuses to be cold!
On 11/20/08 at 7:50 am
Cassie said:
HAHAHAH
yeah…I will be diving in SOUTHERN California!! LOL Like, almost Mexico, southern CA!! LOL
On 11/20/08 at 7:58 am
Karri said:
Now that’s a plan I support!
On 11/20/08 at 6:54 am
Carol said:
Wish I had more time to ponder….but the thought of you turning forty reminded me of how beautifully I spent mine. It’s total fantastic-ness. Mmmmm licking filling out of a twinkie. I may do that one with you!
On 11/20/08 at 7:02 am
Karri said:
You did spend your big day in style, with some lovely ladies. What a fabulous memory maker!
My plans aren’t as outrageous as yours, but it will be quite special nonetheless.
*Don’t forget the Ho-Ho!
On 11/20/08 at 7:19 am
Brad K. said:
Karri - mathematically, 40 begins the end of the thirties - it is when you turn 41 that you have completed the first forty years. But not with birthdays.
I have had co-workers get distracted at work on Friday’s with cries of TGIF - and I console them with, “Don’t overdo the whole Friday thing. After all Monday is just a couple days away.”
Which is a long way of getting around to admiring your “b-day bucket” list.
The events and occasions and accomplishments that we put energy into, that we contemplate (and meditate over) become significant life events because of the energy we put into them.
I think if money and obligations hadn’t been an issue, I might have made room for more people in my life. Provided more people with home, and hope, and what support and guidance I could provide.
Blessed be!
On 11/20/08 at 7:27 am
Karri said:
““b-day bucket” list”
Nice analogy!
I think our lists should be ongoing and not done because of monumental occasions. Unfortunately, all too often we get caught up in the day-to-day doldrums and forget to stop and smell the roses.
It’s not too late to make room for others, ya know? You are still breathing, right?
Thanks Muchly!
On 11/20/08 at 7:21 am
Island Princess said:
Hehehe…that guy at the top said “moist.”
Ok, in all seriousness, I want to go skydiving and take one of those sailing trips on an old ship where you get to be part of the crew. Those are the two things that come to mind when I think of what I would really like to do…oh! And learn to fly a plane…=D
On 11/20/08 at 7:32 am
Karri said:
Ah, yes…Even seems to be our new resident shock and awe guy. And we love him for it.
When I was putting my list together, I thought of skydiving. And then I was immediately aware of severe heart palpitations. So, that’s probably not going to happen. I’ll just live vicariously through you!
On 11/20/08 at 7:24 am
Trista said:
I love this list. I love you!
And if you need a co-pilot on any of your 30 day adventures…I’m there!
On 11/20/08 at 7:29 am
Karri said:
As soon as your hawt little ass returns from your vacay, your name is on many of my to-do’s.
Don’t worry, I won’t make you go see Dr. V with me!
Love you more than most things!!!
On 11/20/08 at 7:20 pm
Meghan said:
“Love you more than most things!!!”
Look at these two love birds…that was stinking adorable!
On 11/20/08 at 7:45 am
Fiona said:
If money and time were no option? I’d be booking a trip to take me to every corner of the globe… screw the Caribbean though, seen enough of that
Happy last month of your 30s! You’re list sounds like a lot of fun and memories, maybe you should photgraph and scrap book your adventures?
On 11/20/08 at 7:57 am
Karri said:
Oh, Fiona!
What a great idea!!! In 20 years when I’m reliving these 30 days via my scrapbook, I promise to remember that it was you who inspired it.
Shall we meet in Fiji?!
On 11/20/08 at 8:18 am
Fiona said:
Eh, by then I hope the good times haven’t left enough space for a memory about a chick with an idea
We shall! Now, who has the magic wand?
On 11/20/08 at 8:39 am
Karri said:
HAHAA!
I almost said, if I even have the brain cells left to retain the memory.
I say we start a donation fund for our getaway!
On 11/20/08 at 8:10 am
Meghan said:
Im finally over the fact that Im 31…kind of.
Traveling is the big one for me. Anywhere and everywhere.
Also the opportunity has presented itself to live in New York and thats something I’ve always pondered. Boston is a teeny New York…maybe.
On 11/20/08 at 8:40 am
Karri said:
Meghan, was that an announcement that you’re moving to the Big Apple?!
On 11/20/08 at 10:33 am
Meghan said:
Or D.C. or maybe Chicago…its all up in the air right now and I have a bit of time to sort it out. Kind of crazed and hectic.
On 11/20/08 at 11:26 am
Karri said:
Do we need to draw straws?
Don’t forget to walk slow and breathe deep…it’ll all work out exactly the way it is supposed to!
On 11/20/08 at 7:17 pm
Meghan said:
The circumstances of why I would move have yet to be settled…I might have to draw straws as I have lived in Boston 9 yrs and to leave and start all over is, you know, scary and stuff.
I DO want to sky dive, however…I get those heart palpitations too…but damn! It looks incredible.
On 11/20/08 at 10:42 am
razor said:
…I am an excellent photographer and specialize in tasteful nudes…
On 11/20/08 at 11:25 am
Karri said:
Being as how we enjoy having you around these parts, I wouldn’t dare scare you away with the sight of my nekkid ass!
On 11/21/08 at 11:11 am
razor said:
…trust me, I shot Cher last April and Madonna in September, I have walked through the valley and you would refresh the jaded lens with your beauty, I am certain…
On 11/20/08 at 10:47 am
LivingWicked said:
No way you are almost 40. I would have pinned you for 29… but no older than 32-33.
I am quickly approaching 30… and I do not really feel like I haven’t accomplished the things I want to… I guess my ‘list’ of things to do really vary day to day… minute to minute.
I do know that I want to have this damn book published before I am 30, really though, before the end of the year. REALLY though, before Christmas.
I also truly want to be part of something amazing before I am 40. What something? I want to have my own transitional housing facility for orphaned/emancipated/abandoned teenagers to assist them in learning how to survive in the ‘real world’. Kids who were never shown how to do every day things. Whose parents would rather shoot up meth than teach their children about life.
I am working damn hard to get there… but 10 years might be a little bit ’shooting for the moon’ considering the fact that I just started school this last quarter….
On 11/20/08 at 11:24 am
Karri said:
I just put you at the top of my Christmas list!
I’m in awe of your goals, and if you ever need assistance in helping them come to fruition, I’m your girl.
And I’m sorry…book? Do we know about this?
As always, thanks girl!
On 11/20/08 at 12:03 pm
LivingWicked said:
You are not in the know about Submissive Confessions??
Trista knows. Carol knows.
And, I will definitely keep that in mind. I need to finish school FIRST…. and then think about the rest.
On 11/20/08 at 12:35 pm
Karri said:
I’m always the last to be in the know.
Good luck, get it done and let us know when to pimp it for you!
On 11/20/08 at 12:53 pm
LivingWicked said:
I definitely will.
On 11/20/08 at 11:48 am
Squish said:
I want to ride a camel to see the pyramids…
hang-glide…
parasail over the mediterranean sea….
learn to surf…
snow-board…
can you rent a big jeep to play in the mud in Russia? You should be able to…
i’m on the stop smoking train too…
get a puppy…
be debt free
take nekkid pictures
write a book
the list goes on…
On 11/20/08 at 12:37 pm
Karri said:
Hey! Lookie who has a face
LOOOOVE the list…you’ve inspired me!
On 11/20/08 at 12:44 pm
Jaime said:
That’s a great checklist for the next month. Next week I’ll be posting my list of 101 things to do in 1001 days. 101 is a lot of things to do, but 1001 is plenty of time to do it in.
You’re brave, woman!
On 11/20/08 at 1:31 pm
Karri said:
I really must be better at stopping by to read you. I’m lame, sorry!
Will you come remind me…I’m old and forget easily.
On 11/20/08 at 12:50 pm
Kevin said:
40 may not be the new 20 as you say, but I think it is the new 30. Sure there are some that think, oh anyone over 22 automatic hip replacement, but I beg to differ.
However, I do understand what you’re driving at, it’s still 40, no matter how much we twist it around, but it’s all in the way you look at it and embrace the idea with the right spirit. I’m five years behind you, and I’d be lying if I said it didn’t cross my mind, but I don’t think, “oh fuck, 40 is right there.” I’m just wondering where I’ll be or how I’ll be more than anything else. It was like that when I was 16, and now when I’m 35. I love my thirties! I love them more than my 20’s, and my 20’s I loved more than my teens, so if the trajectory I’m on continues I’ll love my 40’s even more.
I remember 25 was hard, but 30 was easy, then I just thought ah fuck it, and began abandoning things that were crimping me. As you get older you begin letting go of silly triviality and end up being up above it all and connected to what’s important than succumbing to nonsense.
There are tons more books and scripts and ideas and things in process and development coming up. There’s more of that I want to do and to continue to get better at it. I take a long time to churn this stuff out merely because of time. I don’t have enough of it. There are mankind contributions I want to make in a big way to those less off. I want to focus more on significant things that matter, and try to slow down and relax and enjoy the moment. My own version of a family creation. (sigh Karri) The list is endless.
But let’s face what’s really going to happen, you’re going to make the 40’s HOT!
On 11/20/08 at 1:37 pm
Karri said:
Thank you, my friend. You are too kind!
You know, I can clearly remember my Mom telling me “don’t sweat the small stuff. What you think is so important in this moment is merely petty nonsense. Just let go.”
I am by no means perfect at letting go and just be-ing, but I will say that the confidence and even perhaps the(lack of) patience that comes with a few extra years makes all the difference. The things that matter, matter a lot. And those that don’t…don’t. Make sense?
You will make an oh-so-fabulous 40-something, and I can’t wait to see what you do in the meantime!
On 11/20/08 at 4:27 pm
troy said:
I wish I lived closer, so we could find some stars and make out.
I got my 30th coming up, but Im not freking out because Ive had 2 buddies turn 30 already, so Ive been practicing
On 11/20/08 at 5:19 pm
Karri said:
Happy early, Troy! You’ll love 30, I promise.
And thanks for the offer, but I think I got that one covered…at least I better!
On 11/20/08 at 5:26 pm
Trista said:
Aww, Kar, if you really have your heart set on making out with me, okay. But just cuz it’s your big 4-0.
On 11/20/08 at 7:05 pm
Karri said:
Now that’s friendship right there!
On 11/20/08 at 7:18 pm
Missygail said:
I think my childrens’ age scares me more than my own. Each year I see them getting older and not yet having the life I want and I worry that we’ll be living with grandma and grandpa until their well into their teen years. I just feel like I gotta hurry.
On 11/20/08 at 7:25 pm
Meghan said:
I have to agree about the kids and aging…you know, cause I don’t have kids and all!
But I have nannyed for one boy who is now 10 and talking about getting a cell phone and his Bar Mitzvah when he turns 13…and I’m like “But I used to change your diapers!”
He’s asked me in the last year if he would be invited to my wedding and ‘what kind of job would you give me cause I’m kind of like your family?’
Frightening! Love him to death!
On 11/20/08 at 7:24 pm
Kroll said:
Well, at this age, I thought I would have graduated from vet school and would either be practicing as a GP or doing a residency. But, plans change…
As far as a list for the future:
Spend time with my new surrogate niece when she’s born next month!
Finally graduate
Stay away from people with negative energy (haters)
Stick to a budget
Save money
Move out of the DFW area
Do volunteer work
Travel…anywhere and everywhere!
Find a house with a big back yard and a high fence for Pet Bulls to run and play
Get a horse and ride like when I was little
As for today, I’ll celebrate with another Shiner!
On 11/20/08 at 8:25 pm
pecosa said:
I absolutely love your list. I’m sure like some others on here, I had no idea you were going on 40…You would look amazing even for 35!
I was quite miffed the other day when I was told I looked 28. Especially after I’m discovering wrinkles here and there at 23. Meh.
If I could do anything my heart desired it would be to travel with my family to trace our ancestry. Spain, Ireland and Mexico, here we come!