Ah, the big 4-0! A milestone that's supposed to be filled with wisdom, grace, and maybe a sprinkle of gray hair. But let me tell you, welcoming my 40th birthday felt more like juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle—fun, chaotic, and slightly terrifying.
Missing the Sound of Home
One of the things that hit me hard was the realization that I couldn't call my grandmothers. Oh, how I missed hearing their laughter echoing through the phone, punctuated by those slick Dominican Spanish jokes that could make anyone burst into giggles. The thought of stepping into my "golden years" without their wisdom felt like a party with no merengue—a total bummer.
The Unplanned Crafty Detour
Now, let's talk about this craft studio I somehow opened. Me? The person who vowed never to pen up a craft studio again after that glitter fiasco of 2015? Yep, life's funny that way. It's as if my spirit guides and ancestors got together for a cosmic brainstorming session and said, "Let's throw in a plot twist in this Novela!"
The Eternal Juggle
People often ask, "How do you juggle it all?" A family, real estate investments, a full-time gig in marketing, and running a nonprofit (DearGodAreWeThereYet.com)? My response usually involves a self-deprecating laugh and something about my ADHD proudly announcing its presence. But deep down, even I wonder, "How the heck do I manage?"
A Journey of Self-Discovery
Then came the game-changer: reading "It Didn't Start with You" by Mark Wolynn. Talk about a revelation! It made me ponder whether this drive and passion coursing through my veins are just an integral part of who I am. And just when I thought life couldn't throw any more curveballs, I became a mother to a little girl who's as fiercely passionate as they come. The novela plot, as they say, thickens.
Signs, Messages, and Faith
I've always been a believer in signs, messages, and faith. So, when my 40th birthday rolled around, and the coffee shop in Mexico started playing the one song my grandmother Felicita sang to me every year, I lost it—in a good way. Tears, shivers, the whole shebang. It was as if the universe tapped me on the shoulder and whispered, "You're not forgotten. You're not a mistake."
Legacy and Lessons
I come from a lineage of strong, resilient women who've taught me—and my parents—a great deal. Sure, the journey wasn't always paved with gold. Immigration, with its bittersweet blend of hope and heartache, left its mark. But if there's one thing I'm here to do, it's to break that cycle of limiting beliefs and scarcity.
Here's to Being Loud, Bold, and Extra
So, as I bid farewell to my 30s and embrace the fabulous 40s, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and a spirit unshaken. To my Dominican golden girls who've shaped me into the woman I am today, this one's for you. I may be older, but I'm also wiser, sassier, and ready to tackle whatever the next chapter holds.
Happy Birthday to me, Alicia, a.k.a. the eternal firecracker who's here to add a dash of extra to the world. Here's to 40 years of dreams, detours, and undeniable Dominican flair! 🎉🇩🇴
So, there you have it—a glimpse into my rollercoaster ride of emotions, lessons, and unabashed love for life. Here's to turning 40 and embracing every fabulous moment that comes with it! Cheers! 🥂
Your Niña Always,
Alicia