Published: September 13, 2025
By: Ronetta “Ronnie” Whitaker

🍃 This Week in My Real Life
Yesterday I turned 49. 🥳 I celebrated with my husband and my girls, and it was absolutely perfect. Today I’m keeping the celebration going with sushi and martinis with a few cousins and friends—and let me tell you, there is something sweet about celebrating exactly how you want to.

🍸 Big Celebrations vs. Chilling at Home
Am I the only one who feels like the older you get, the less you want the big blowouts? Don’t get me wrong—I love a good party. But these days, I’m just as happy (maybe even happier) staying home, sipping on my own $25 martinis for free-99, and laughing with the people who get me best.

The pressure to go “all out” on birthdays used to feel like a thing. Now? I’m leaning into peace, joy, and comfort over chaos. A cozy house, good food, and people I love feels more like luxury than any packed club could ever be.

💡 Why This Birthday Feels Different
Forty-nine feels like a milestone—not quite the big 5-0, but definitely a chapter marker. I’m looking back on everything I’ve carried, created, and survived, and I’m proud. But I’m also looking ahead, because there’s so much more I want to do—especially building Parenting After 40 into the community I imagine.

This year, I’m choosing:
✨ Ease over exhaustion.
✨ Connection over chaos.
✨ Joy over obligation.

📣 Talk to Me
If you’re over 40, how do you like to celebrate your birthdays now? Big bash, cozy dinner, or quiet night at home? Let’s trade stories in the comments—I know I’m not the only one choosing comfort (and free-99 martinis).