[QUOTE=Anesis;23491]So far, I have spent my 40's in university and dealing with issues from family of origin, so I must say I'm not having too much fun.

I thought it would be hard to go back to university, being with kids who could be my children! But I was pleasantly surprised to see a lot of others my age are returning as well, for various reasons that pertain to midlife in this society. We might be the oldies there, but it seems that the young ones are fully accepting and supporting of us returning to school.

Life doesn't begin at 40 - it begins after university!

I have been very fortunate, too, to return to school and be somewhat more financially secure than I was when I was just starting out, too. I really can't complain, but school is consuming and I don't feel like I'm really living.
An[/QUOTE]

Wow! I just found out that I'm not the only one feeling like I do! When I read your comment...I saw myself. What a relief to know that I'm not alone! However, life is good! I thought that I would never have the chance at getting (some kind of) degree! I am in the National Guard and served a tour in Iraq (2004-2005), moved back home to South Carolina (newly divorced) and my only daughter married (now with two children of her own). It was the Guard that is providing me with the opportunity of returning to school. I also work at the college as Veteran's Administration work study- Needless to say, with 25 hours of work per week and four classes, homework, helping out with my Mom, National Guard duty one weekend a month, and trying to visit my daughter at least one weekend a month...It's a wonder that I'm able to function on a daily basis! I know that I am blessed and it is through God's graciousness that I will perservere! I am enjoying my 40's...Even though I suffered a very bad car accident after returning from Iraq. That took a couple of year's to recover from. But I'm still standing! Please pray for me that I will always remember the blessings that I have and never look back to the things of the past! Thanks and have a wonderful day! Karen

I've grown into myself and I like it. :)

[QUOTE=appy20;12336]What do you like about being in your forties?  Is this decade different for you?  Are you different now?

It is very different for me.  It has been my liberation decade.  I have had the most fun in my life in it.  I have become comfortable in my own skin.  I had a hard time with that when younger.  I truly like who I have become.  Warts and all.  I can forgive myself more easily.  I know that I can endure what I thought I could not in the past. I have weathered enough stuff to know that I can handle most of what life throws at me.  I also sweat less of the small stuff.  I am still energetic as I was when younger but much more centered.[/QUOTE]
I am almost 48 and the best thing about my age is I am not afraid of speaking up and have more confidence than I had when I was 25.I care less about my reputation.

Well! Its like some one said to me once at forty you become more naughty. I believe the naughtiness now I have is to play more with kids without being shy who is watching me. I feel more close to Lord and my faith in him has increased to that level where I understand things more clearly and wisely. I can tell my experiences to kids, friends and my wisdom works for others. Life become meaningful and more secure. The shyness vanishes and I can openly talk what I want and what I dont like. I feel more blessed. Hope everyone feels the same... Blessings to you all.

I guess it would be that I've grown enough to know better, but still young enough to have to decide.