Publisher's Letter
Lordy Lordy, look who’s 40! That’s right, it’s me! I cannot believe I am officially a quadragenarian, which is apparently what they call those of us between the ages of 40 and 49. I guess I’m in the beginning stages of adulthood now, where metabolisms slow down, hair turns gray (or disappears entirely), and I’ll soon start using phrases like “back in my day.” Ah, the joys of becoming “wiser.”
Reaching 40 feels like crossing a bridge from youthful exuberance to moments of “Where did I put my reading glasses?” Suddenly, I notice mysterious aches and pains that seem to pop up out of nowhere. Comfortable shoes and heating pads have become my new best friends, and I am fully committed to rocking comfortable sneakers instead of heels with any outfit. Fashion meets functionality, right?
But let’s not dwell on the creaking joints and unexpected groans that squeak out when I stand up. No, let’s celebrate the absurdity of it all. I have collected a treasure trove of “I can’t believe I just said that” moments and my superpower is having a fairly consistent 9 pm (or earlier) bedtime—wild nights, I tell you.
Turning 40 means I am (somewhat) a seasoned expert in the game of life. I have survived questionable fashion trends, cringe-worthy hairstyles, and the awkwardness of my teenage years. Now, people expect me to be a responsible adult who has life all figured out. Ha! The joke’s on them.
I feel old enough to know better, yet still young enough to do it anyway. So, join me, all my fellow youthful-at-heart comrades, and raise a glass (or several). Let’s toast to the gray hairs (or artfully salon-dyed ones), fine lines (or lack thereof, thanks to Botox®), and the wisdom that (supposedly) comes with age. Let’s not forget the importance of embracing the next chapter with open arms.
Turning 40 does not mean I will stop having fun or pursuing my dreams. If anything, it is a reminder to take life a little less seriously and cherish every moment. So, here is to aging disgracefully, laughing uncontrollably, and enjoying the ride.
May my sense of humor stay intact, may my laugh lines deepen, and may my spirit forever remain young at heart. And as we celebrate, don’t forget to enjoy this month’s issue of Texarkana Magazine. It is filled with the Hall of Famers of my childhood, current Texarkana legends, and inspirational stories that make the future look bright.
Cheers to us!
