Forty Before 40

Updated: Sep 26, 2021

I don't know about you, but I love a good list!

I was joking with a friend recently about how often people think I'm really organised; but look into my inner workings and you will see, it's all a farce! I had to teach myself what to do to keep myself organised. Lists are one of those things I've learned to love.

This week I was reading an excellent book Habits of a Happy Brain by Dr Loretta Graziano Breuning. It was a work read, but also helpful to me, to think about why I might not feel as pepped as normal. Having talked to several people, they are feeling the same way at the moment.

The book inspired me to write a whimsical mini bucket list of 40 things to do before I turn 40 in March!

Both for my own accountability and to extend the offer to friends to join me on my journey of whimsy, I am sharing the list here. My hope is it brings some light and joy into this last quarter of the year (and things to look forward to in the darker months). It is very self-catering, which doesn't mean there's no looking out for others in my life, but this is me putting on my oxygen mask first.

1. Find a new scent

For so long I have used the same two perfumes. There is nothing wrong with this but I would love to go perfume shopping and find something new.

2. Find a signature wine

I used to love wine, then the gin revolution happened. Now I can't remember what I loved. Time to find out!

3. Have a Kylie party with Kylie wine

Because why not!

4. Get ears re-pierced

I was a late starter to earrings, and after all that, I then let them grow over. Every now and then I miss them, so I thought, let's go get those holes again!

5. Host a Christmas party

This is already on my 21/21 list, I just want to make sure it happens

6. Visit London Sky Garden

It just looks amazing, and I love London

7. Have a day spa

In the summer, a friend and I had an amazing hotel spa break here in Lymington. I would 100% repeat. However even if it is at home, I love a good pamper session.

8. Buy an egg chair

I also went to an Airbnb in Essex for three nights. It is absolutely the best UK Airbnb I have visited, and alongside the swim spa, they also had a hanging egg chair. I experienced the joy and relaxation of one. Now I want my own!

9. Do something kind for a stranger

Because why not

10. Book a holiday ✈

I miss travel! Will I finally get to Montenegro?

11. Move house

Well... here's hoping (also very much less whimsical than the rest!)

12. Go to a shooting range

Don't ask me why, I'll probably hate it, but I keep saying I want to try.

13. Buy a piece of artwork

Adulting...

14. Visit the Cheese bar at Seven Dials

Cheeeeeeese...

15. See Come From Away or Only Fools & Horses

I've missed the theatre so much so I'll go even if it's on my own

16. Do something challenging in prophetic

Last year I took part in Wendy Mann's excellent Naturally Supernatural Course and this year was part of a prophetic huddle. I want to continue building on what I have learnt

17. Write a song

You can't force these things but I'd like to try

18. Try to publish devotional

If you followed my last blog (Arrow & Pen) you'd know I wrote an advent devotional for some friends. I'd love to try and make it an e-book of some sorts

19. Sign up for a course

I've found a course I love, just need to make that jump!

20. Find a LBD

Shouldn't everyone have one?

21. Create a friendship book

I've always loved the idea of this... (hello enneagram 2!)

22. Ice skate/roller skate

I miss it, again I might hate it or fail, but it needs to happen

23. Movie Marathon

It's been a while, and this one might not happen but I hope it does, popcorn and all! Send me film recommendations!