Well, here we are. I’m 39. I’m gonna be honest: that feels like an “old” number to say out loud. Also, birthdays are a bit different at this stage of life, when you still have the responsibilities of caring for a child. That said, it’s still something I wanted to celebrate. Because I like celebrating things in general. And the result was a fabulous weekend, the smiles from which have carried me through this whole week. I spent Friday indulging myself in all things that make me happy, mostly eating good food and exploring my city. Saturday was a race followed by a Weenies and ‘Tinis party in our courtyard. I outsourced a bartender to keep things extra simple and had a blast. Some of the hot dogs didn’t cook properly and the speaker didn’t work. No problem. We pivoted to conversation over music and ordered some pizza. A few friends joined and plenty neighbors. We ended up not going to any bars afterward because I was just so nice and relaxed. It was perfect. Sunday was spent at the Children’s Museum and brunch with my parents before entering full decompression mode. 39 is off to a great start.
I told my parents what I really wanted for my birthday was a visit from them. I hadn’t seen them in about two months, I missed them. Lucky for me, they complied. Typically, hanging with them centers around V, but even as an adult *I* still wanted that special attention from my parents so we spent all of Friday bopping around Soho. I loved it! We had yummy snacks, did unique activities, looked at art – all just us. Finn had early dismissal from school so once he woke up from his nap, he joined the party, but it was really special to have my own quality time.
Ten weeks ago I signed up for a 10K after not getting into a 5K I wanted to run. When I realized it was the morning after my 39th birthday, it became a challenge. Do I still have what it takes at the age of 39? I trained and made it happen. I set an agressive goal of under 51 minutes and while I didn’t do quite that well, I did get a final time of 52:37, which is an 8:28 pace and a PR. It was also the top 16% of all runners. I am incredibly proud of myself AND I had fun doing it. It was tough but felt good to push myself. The medal was just gravy.
On Tuesday, Rebekah and I saw Hell’s Kitchen, the new Broadway musical by Alicia Keys that was inspired by her teen life and relationship with her mother as she discovered the arts in Manhattan. Big moves on a random Tuesday night, but so much fun. I’m so glad we were able to squeeze one of the buzziest shows in advance of the Tony Awards. Maleah Joi Moon, who plays the lead role of Ali was absolutely fantastic and will undoubtedly have an incredible and long career. Also, we grabbed sandwiches at All’Antico Vinaio before the show and those massive Italian import sandwiches are just so good – with surprisingly well-priced wine. Highly recommend if you don’t mind waiting in line for a bit and hovering over a stool. I recommend one of their specials or the Boss with the addition of pistachio cream.
Peaches to Apples 