The Homeschool Mother's Journal: The big 4-0

**The homeschool mother's journal is a weekly link-up hosted by Sue over at The Homeschool Chick.

In my life this week…  I did it! I turned 40. and lived to tell about it. I mean really, 40 is way much better than the alternative, right? (not getting the chance to turn 40)...

and our daughter, who auditioned for a part in the Nutcracker Ballet this past week was cast in a role! (so proud!)

 I found out on my birthday that a project I did was featured this week on Night Owl Crafting. That was a great present! (Thank you!)

And here at Brighton Park, we hosted my daughters'  troop sleepover last weekend. These cupcakes I made were a big hit:

In our homeschool this week…Continuing our theme units on The Kissing Hand, North America, and Famous Americans.

I am inspired by… maturity. I read this this week on another blog: "never underestimate the ability of grown women to behave immaturely".  For sure. As I hit my stride in my new 40s, I simply will not allow pettiness, silly dramas, or people who are unable to view things objectively suck up any time in my life.

Places we’re going and people we’re seeing… My actual birthday was a weekday Wednesday but we still snuck out for some great (and very hot) Thai food--my sinuses haven't been this clear in years! and Mr. Darcy has planned a special date night for us this coming Saturday at our favorite restaurant to celebrate. And, I bought a new dress (my pre-all five babies size!) for the occasion--feeling pretty good that all the walking and yoga are paying off! Now, let's see if I can stay awake past 9:30!

My favorite thing this week was… all the cards and calls I received from all over from friends near and far who wanted to help celebrate my special day. Talk about people who are so dear to me! I am rich in my friends (heart).

Things I’m working on…studying is taking up most of my "free time" but I am still hopeful that I will get my Etsy store opened soon, if only with a few items at first and then hopefully add more each month.

I’m reading… Got all my halloween books and magazines out and siphering through them for some inspiration. We love this time of year and plan to decorate the house this weekend.

I’m cooking… Just made a fabulous wild rice salad. Vegetarian, gluten-free, energizing, healthy, and economical. For the recipe, click HERE. It makes a fabulous lunch or light dinner or dinner side dish with a broiled or baked meat.

I’m grateful for… all the wonderful birthday wishes I received from family and friends near and far. What a fabulous day.

I’m praying for… guidance as to God's long term plan for me. While I am working on two new masters degrees (which is as crazy living it as it is reading it), I want to make sure that this is what his plan for my life is and that I am doing what he wants and not just what I think I want.  I feel like I am being drawn to these new endeavors with the thought in my heart that my preparation now will in fact have me prepared for what God has in store for me in the future. If you ever watched "Facing the Giants", you would understand when I say "I am preparing for rain".

A photo, video, link, or quote to share… So proud of my dancer #15. She has worked so hard, took the audition seriously, and was rewarded for her effort!

Blessings to you this week!