Hi and thank you for visiting with us today!
We’re having fun with our latest series, Chapel Cove Romances, set in a small Oregon coastal town, where for many of our characters, life begins at 40. The first three books all feature heroines about to turn 40, and all facing big changes in their lives.
I asked Marion, Alexa, and Autumn to each t
ell me something about turning 40, and here it is!
MARION: Way back in September 2000, I turned forty with a bash! Surrounded by family and close friends, I hosted a fun “Color Me Forty” party. I donned my brightest, most colorful blouse, and we had a lamb roasting on the spit while we sat outside under our large willow tree drinking brightly colored sodas, playing kids games, and painting our faces. Everyone also painted a square cloth depicting me. After all these years, I still haven’t figured out what to do with those pieces of painted fabric, but they’re nice to look at from time to time.
ALEXA: I’m one of those women who thinks that instead of celebrating forty, one should celebrate one’s 39th birthday for at least five times. Or seven. Good things about turning 40 for me are:
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I realized that what matters is not what other people think of me but what God thinks of me.
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I don’t need to impress anyone.
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I don’t have as much energy as I used to, so I can allow myself some lazy days.
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I can treat myself to good chocolate and not feel guilty about it (no longer self-conscious about my weight).
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Considering that some people live a hundred years now, I hopefully still have most of my life ahead of me. Sometimes life does start at forty!
AUTUMN: LOL, Alexa wrote exactly what I was thinking too. Yay for 40 and being our own and God’s own women at last! That has to be a good thing!
Turning 40 for me was… um… interesting. The potentially most romantic dinner of my life in the most romantic setting, something my long-term boyfriend and I had planned well in advance. A holiday in a lovely hotel in a gorgeous small French village, all sweet little old stone cottages with flower-filled gardens. A little arched bridge over the river lined with weeping willows. A candle-lit champagne dinner in the internationally renowned chef’s restaurant booked for my birthday.
Perfect place for a proposal, right?
Wrong.
My darling boyfriend chose that vacation to tell me that instead of working late, he’d been seeing someone else for months, fallen crazy in love with her, and it was time for us to say goodbye. The champagne dinner ended up far more about drowning my sorrows than celebrating!
Now, I can laugh about it. Life really did begin at forty for me, too. Two years later I met the man God intended for me all along.
And now, I’m also wondering – how can I use this in a book? It will appear, somehow, somewhere, in one of my stories!
In the three currently available books, Remember Me, Love Me, and Cherish Me – first of hopefully twelve stand alone romances in the series – each heroine turns 40 in a different way.
One is treated to a truly romantic dinner – spoiler – he doesn’t tell her he’s been cheating on her!
One – guess whose! – wants to cancel her birthday altogether.
And one has a fun get-together with her best friends.
So, how did you turn 40, what’s good about being over 40, or if you aren’t there yet, how do you hope 40 will be for you?
One comment made before 6 pm Sunday June 23rd 2019 will be chosen at random to win paperback copies of all three books. The winner must provide a US mailing address to receive the paperbacks, or alternatively they will receive all three books in ebook.
Get a bonus entry by following Chapel Cove Romances on Amazon and saying so in your comment!
About Chapel Cove Romances
Here are the links to each of the three books:
I turned 40 almost 17 years ago! I’m glad it’s behind me!! 40 was nothing, as I remember. Fifty wasn’t bad, either. I like what Alexa said. I’m finally, now, at the stage where I don’t care if I have make up on or not, and actually prefer not!! I used to not go out of the house without it, and now, the only “makeup” I really use is mascara, and that not every day!!
That’s beautiful, Trudy, I cannot even recall the last time I put makeup on, hahaha! I was the same way though, when I was young I would even go to the mailbox without it incase someone saw me.
Yes!! Now, I could care less!! I’ve always been one that felt if you were going to judge me on looks, clothes, etc., I didn’t care. However, I had that makeup on!! Now, I really could care less, since I don’t wear it now!! Lol!!!
Trudy, lol, I can so relate! It used to be that any time I stepped outside (and also had to be dressed up), and now I’m perfectly fine the way I am. 🙂 Thank you so much for commenting.
Lol, Trudy, I can SOOO relate 😁
I relate to that totally, Trudy! LOL, just trying to recall the last time I actually wore make-up. It would be fun to get it out and wear it now and then, but yes, I don’t want to go back to the days of feeling uncomfortable if I went out without it!
I think I went to dinner with my family. Was back living with my parents. Was unemployed and had been helping my mom after open heart surgery. I knew all was in Gods plan. A couple of months after turning 40 I met my husband and married him a month later. Took on 2 preteen daughters. We celebrated 18 years marriage the end of April. Love the books and am a follower of tv he series on Amazon.
You are so right, Cindy – it is all in Gods plans – sometimes we just need to step out the way and let Him work it all out! Congratulations on your anniversary!
Cindy Anderson, so glad you found love and marriage after turning forty. And maybe there’s hope for me, after all. I just need to rely in God’s will. Heartfelt thanks for all your support of our series! You’ve been amazing.
What a wonderful story, Cindy ❤
Oh wow, Cindy! That’s amazing how a big new life began at 40 for you too. I’m so glad!
God brings good out of everything. 🙂
Turning 40 was a hard time for me. I was happy to be cancer free but my twin sister was dealing with Brain Cancer. I was happy that we got to celebrate another birthday together. I didn’t know that would be our last Birthday together. She died 2 days before our 41st. We always wanted to do a black and white birthday celebration but it didn’t work out because we thought we had time. She had a great sense of humor. I would not have chosen anyone else to share and spend our birthday with.
Bless you, Sonnetta, that has touched my heart. We never know how many days we have on this earth, we need to truly live each day to the fullest. You are in my prayers.
Sonnetta Jones, I’m sorry. That is heartbreaking. Praying for you.
Hugs, Sonnetta. So sorry for your loss. I’m glad you were able to share that special birthday together.
Praying for you.
What a sad time for you, Sonnetta. So glad you have wonderful memories of your sister.
I don’t remember doing anything special for my 40th birthday. I had just started dating my now husband and he may not of even known at the time that my 40th birthday was coming up.
Sometimes a nice quiet milestone is just as lovely, Paty!
Patty, thank you so much for sharing! Since we started this series, I so love hearing how many women found love and marital bliss after turning forty!
Aww, Paty! Sweet that you were dating the man you married. And yes, sometimes big celebrations are fun, other times, just quietly marking a milestone in our hearts is all we need. And 40 is really only a number. LOL, says me as I will be 60 next year! Also just another number!
How sweet, Patty. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you so much for hosting our giveaway, Paula Marie!
My absolute pleasure!
Yes, thanks so much, Paula 🙂
We lived in Rock Springs, WY, and were still raising our two sons, when I turned 40. My husband was finishing his teaching career there; the following year we moved to Deer Lodge, MT, where he’s been a minister for the last 21 years. It has been so beneficial to see God work in our lives as we’ve lived in one place to finish raising our kids, who are now both pursuing their own careers. Plus, with time, we are seeing people more under conviction to consider trusting Christ by seeing us stay in our community, be predictable in our stand for the Lord, and are stable in our consistent witness for Him as we continue to serve the Lord in Montana! Thank you for your prayers for us for more souls! http://www.gbcdl.org Also, I appreciate the opportunity to enter a giveaway! Would love to win a print book! When I’m done with it, will pass it on, as our town can always use more CF at our library to influence others for the Lord!
Lual Krautter, praying for your husband’s ministry and I admire your serving the Lord! Very nice of you to pass books to the local library. Best wishes in the giveaway!
Bless you, Lual! I appreciate you so much and love how you pay it forward!
How wonderful! Lual! What a blessing you and your husband are to your community! Praying for your ongoing ministry.
For me, one of the biggest benefits of getting older is being able to look back and see God’s hand at work in my life. Especially those times when as I went through them, He felt furthest away.
Thank you for sharing, Lual. How wonderful 🙂
Sonnetta Jones, I’m sorry. That is heartbreaking. Praying for you.
I haven’t got 40 yet but I’m hoping it even better then the years before! I’m kind of looking forward to it but am always a little apprehensive about it. I’m sure it will be great though! God has made every year better and better!
Also I have followed on Amazon! Love all three authors here!!!
Good for you, Christie! Embrace every day!
Christie, wow! I love your attitude! What a great way to look at things. I need to learn from you. 🙂 And we love you back.
Great attitide, Christie! Love it! And it’s so true, too.
Aw, thank you, Christie. Forty will be great, don’t worry about it 🙂 If God has made every year better, think how awesome fifty, or sixty, or seventy are going to be 🙂
I have a serious congenital heart defect and my then Dr. told me I probably won’t live past 23, go to College, have kids, etc. Well, I am 63! I have been to College, managed a Christian bookstore, joined my husband in 34 years of Pastoring churches and we now have 3 young adult kids! I don’t mind my age at all, in fact I rejoice at the many extra years God has given me to serve Him with my family.
God’s blessings, Sandra! What a testimony! Keeping you in my prayers for continued health!
Sandra Platt, I agree with Paula. What a great testimony you’ve given! You sound like an amazing person. Yes to rejoicing about years God has given us and serving Him! Praying for your health. Thank you so much for your beautiful comment.
Wow, Sandra, that’s amazing! What an incredible testimony. Praising God for His blessings. 🙂
Wow, Sandra, what a wonderful testimony that in the end, it is God who determines our days.
I honestly don’t remember turning 40, it must have been okay if I don’t remember it. Now, 15 years later, things are great. Age really is just a number.
I agree with you on the number, Teresa! We all need to stay young at heart!
Teresa, that’s so true! Age is just a number. Thank you for commenting!
Wonderful attitude, Teresa, and so true!
LOL, some days I can’t remember yesterday 🙂 So glad life at 55 is great for you!
I turned 40 twenty three years ago. I was managing the Homeless Project at the time and my deputy joined my husband and I for a lovely meal out.
That sounds wonderful, Helen! What noble work.
Helen, that is true, what a noble work to do! Thank you for stopping by.
Helen, you are young still! And what a lovely way to spend your birthday. The work you did for that Project was a blessing to many.
How lovely, Helen. And admirable work you were doing with the homeless.
Now that I am almost 55, I can hardly remember the thoughts I had at turning 40! I have enjoyed this season of my life. The funny thing is I don’t feel over 40! I guess I am just someone who is perpetually young at heart.
The only thing I can think of is that I choose to live each day to its fullest.
I know what you mean, Susan! I am always finding myself surprised when I think, I am that old?? LOL
Susan, it is so wonderful to be perpetually young at heart, and what an admirable attitude you have. And it’s so important to live each day to its fullest.
That’s absolutely the best way to approach life at any age, Susan!
LOL, I remember as a teen wondering what my life would be when I turned 40. It seemed so impossibly distant and far away. Now, of course, it would be too long before I hit 60!
My mother always said her body might be old, but her mind was that of a twenty-year old. I tend to agree with her (my body, though, reminds me that I’m NOT two decades old LOL).
Wow, Autumn. That is so sad. Yes! Use it as material for a book. 🙂
I turned 40, 17 and a half years ago…..So much has happened in that time….it’ll be another book. LOL.
For me, the crazy and distressing time began at 40. It didn’t stop either, until August of 2017, when my whole life changed. A new kind of crazy took over. An exhilarating kind of crazy. I had already met the love of my life, but never thought that God would actually bring us together. I was about to be homeless in the UK, (my home country), couldn’t get work. Out of the blue and just in the nick of time, I was offered a teaching job in Sweden, where I had lived for a few years before. This was for me, a huge miracle. I have always loved Sweden and longed to live there. As soon as I arrived though, God showed me His next plan. The love of my life and I, were on a path to finally be together. After a year and a half and several visits to the U.S.A during school breaks, I received my fiancee visa and emigrated to the U.S.A. in March, when we married. I don’t regret the 40’s of my life, they were incredibly painful, but necessary, to get me to where I am today. God truly has His hand on us all. I would love to read the books in the giveaway. They sound fun.
Carmina, wow, what an amazing life story you have! I’m sorry about hardships you went through, but yes, God has His hand on us all , and I’m glad your life turned so wonderfully for the better! Thank you very much for sharing your inspiring story!
Thank you so much, Alexa. God is so good.
That is absolutely amazing, Carmina! What a wonderful story! What a great book that would make…(hint, hint authors, lol)!
Paula Marie. Hahaha, it will be the 3rd book in my series. Yes…..the whole story is going to be 3 books….the first 2 didn’t cover the half of it. LOL. God’s been busy in my life. 🙂 Figuring out how to write that 3rd book though is tricky. I can’t have my children (from my first marriage), upset, which they likely will be. They find it hard to even think of their father being adulterous and abusive, so I need to be senstive about their feelings. I need to find a way of glossing over some of the 40’s years without it being obvious that I’ve missed out a whole chunk. However, everything after that, I can write! My whole reason for writing it though, is to show just how much God loves us, cares for us and protects us. He has been with me every step of the way and miracles bestowed upon me, just blow my mind away. My story is one which is all for God’s own glory.
I would love to read your story, Carmina, and you know what, I am praying that your children will one day understand.
Thank you so much, Paula. I appreciate your prayers. <3
It is an honor!
Awesome kind of crazy in the end, Carmina! I’m so glad how things worked out for you. It’s amazing how God can take those times when everything is going wrong and bring good from it!
I hope you’re going to write that story. 🙂
Hey Autumn, thank you so much. Yes, God is faithful.
I just commented on Paula’s comment above, about the writing of that book. 🙂 I will write it, Autumn. <3
Wow, an incredible story, Carmina. Definitely book fodder!
Thank you so much, Marion.
I intend to tell all, a continuation from my first 2 books. It’s not an “oh poor me” story. It’s a “Wow, look how impossible everything was and yet, God brought me through it all and led me to being the happiest, I have ever been.” <3
Forty was 24 years ago. I wasn’t in any mood to celebrate so I didn’t. I was in the midst of divorce and was busy coping with that. I have since married a good Godly man and am so much happier. Life began again at 40 and I’m loving it.
Pam, so sorry you had to go through divorce, but so glad you married a good Godly man! Thrilled you’re loving your life. Love reading all these great stories. Thank you so much for sharing!
We all have our seasons, Pam, mine was 30, I was going through some of what you said. I was really – really not wanting to celebrate 30, but did much better at 40 (((hugs)))
Hugs on the painful times, Pam, but so glad for your present happiness. That’s exactly why we wanted to write these stories. So many of us go through big unwanted life changes in their 40’s but God brings them through to a far better place. 🙂
And He did Autumn. God is so good!!
So glad that life got better for you, Pam. God is good!
I am following on Amazon. Turning 40 was just another birthday for me. Age is what you make of it Thanks for the chance.
Tighefan42atgmaildotcom
Absolutely, Tammy! Thanks for following us on Amazon.
Thank you so much for following us on Amazon, Tammy! And you’re so right. Age is what you make of it.
Hi, Tammy! You are so right about what you make out of life, thank you for sharing!
I turned 40 over a dozen years ago. Age is just a number to me, so I didn’t want a party. However, I did share a birthday cake with my son since his birthday is the same day as mine, and my hubby and daughter were the only other people there.
Congratulations on this series! I’m looking forward to reading all the stories.
I’m following Chapel Cove Romances on Amazon.
Age is just a number, Tina. How cool that you share a birthday with your son. Thanks for following us.
Tina, thank you so much for following us on Amazon! Wow on sharing birthday with your son. That must have been such a wonderful birthday present! Thank you for commenting, and I hope you’ll enjoy our series!
How sweet that you share the same day! My son’s birthday is actually 9 days before mine!
It’s a little hard to remember exactly what I did at 40, since it was twenty years ago. lol
I believe I spent a nice quiet day to myself. My husband probably took me out for supper, but that was about all.
I love all of Marion, Alexa and Autumn’ Comments. I know there’s a story there somewhere. Remember to celebrate each milestone. We never get them back.
Thank you for a chance to win. I would love all three books in paperback. 😊
Oh, I already follow Chapel Cove Romances.
Hi, Kathy! I know what you mean about how long ago 40 was, hahaha! If my hubs hadn’t made such a big deal out of mine I am sure I wouldn’t recall it either, lol
Thanks for commenting, Kathy and for following us. Yes, there could definitely be a story in all our comments. Everything tells a story 🙂 All the best in the draw.
Turning 40 was no big deal for me, I actually enjoy this stage of life. My kids are at an age (15 &12) where we can enjoy each other and I can have intelligent conversations with them. Thank you so much for the opportunity to win and read these books.
Oh, that is sweet, Beth! I love the having “intelligent conversations” with your children! Continued blessings!
LOL, although I had such a colorful and fun 40th birthday, it also doubled up as a farewell for us as we were immigrating to Ireland two months later, so come to think of it, my fortieth year was difficult trying to adapt to a new country. My kids were then 10 and 13 and almost your kids ages, Beth, when we emigrated back to South Africa.
Beth Riggs, it’s wonderful to have intelligent conversations with the children. Thank you very much for commenting, and best wishes in the giveaway!
I celebrated my 40th birthday 29 years ago with a six month old in my arms and a 12 and 9 year old at my side. We had moved back to my home town the year before after spending 10 years in Chicago. My husband threw me a surprise birthday party. When it came to blowing out my candles a fireman stood by. He was a volunteer fireman and head deacon of the church my husband was pastoring. Been a fun ride since. Comparing memories now that my grandsons are around the same age. Love the Chapel Cove stories.
What a lovely memory, Renate! You always make me smile 😊
Love the fireman addition to the celebrations, Renate. What fun. So glad you love our Chapel Cove stories.
Renate, I loved this story! Thank you very much for sharing. How nice of your husband to throw a surprise party! And I’m thrilled you enjoyed Chapel Cove Romances.
Enjoyed reading this post 😉
Already a follower!
40…still have three more years to plan it out! I’m thinking about a surprise Cruise for my hubby’s 40 in two years <3
Oh wow, Natalya! My hubs has always wanted to go on a cruise! Sounds like you could make it a combo celebration!❤️
Natalya, that sounds like a wonderful plan. You should totally do it!
Natalya, thank you so much for following! And I love the idea of a surprise cruise for your husband!
Apparently Marion and I are the same age since I also turned 40 in September of 2000. It must have been unremarkable as I don’t remember what I did to celebrate. My 40’s were very enjoyable but my 50’s have included more physical pain than I would like.
Oh, Sherri, I am so sorry! I understand what you mean though, seems like the day after I turned 50 everything started falling apart 😪. You are in my prayers!❤️
They say growing old isn’t for sissies and that is so true, Sherri. If I think how many aches and pains I have now in my back and knees, I don’t know how my mom and dad made it to 88 (or how I’ll get there). May God grant you some relief from the physical ailments.
Sherri, so sorry to hear about physical pain. Praying for you.
I turned 40 one month after marrying my second husband John and we’ve been married 33 years. god has been faithful to us all these years. Praise God!
How wonderful, Vivian! and YES – God is so faithful!
Amen! And praise God!
How wonderful, Vivian 🙂
I know 22 years ago I turned 40 spending time with my family I always say now I am 39 and holden lol Thank you so much for this awesome giveaway!
Love that, Sarah….I sometimes say I am celebrating the (insert #) Anniversary of my 39th birthday, lol!
Thank you, Sarah! And lol, I think it’s a good idea to celebrate anniversaries of 39th birthdays!
LOL, that way you’re forever young, Sarah 🙂
I hope you will each include your story about turning forty in a book! I turned forty a month into what turned into a multi-year health crisis that is still not over and a week after getting laid off. Pretty sure I won’t be putting mine in a book!
P.S. I’m following on Amazon and can’t wait to get into these books!
Aww, Katherine, I am sorry to hear about your struggles. I am adding you to my prayers for this season of yours.
Katherine, I know Autumn is already getting ideas to use her story in a book at some stage. I’d never thought of it, but maybe I should. Thank you for following Chapel Cove Romances.
Small town, coastal settings are some of my favorites. My dream place to live! My 40th birthday was a tough one for me, but now that it’s way behind me, I realize life was just beginning. 🙂 I follow on Amazon too.
Amen, Robin! I always strive to keep my eyes focused forward. Many times I can think back and see God’s handiwork when I was struggling, blessings to you!
Thanks for following, Robin, and so glad this series hits the sweet spot of location for you.
To me age is just a number. At the time I turned 40, I didn’t dread it nor celebrate it differently than I did 50 or 60.
Looking back to when I was 40, I remember great happiness and sadness. I was extremely happy with my life – being married to the man of my dreams, having bought the bigger house in country that we had always wanted and being alive after being told I’d never live past 30. On the other hand I was sad because I couldn’t celebrate it with our daughter who had died in a car accident at the age of 17 a few years before or the twins we lost before their birth.
God blesses us with so many blessing and miracles that each and every day we wake up we should give thanks. I do for his grace and love and all the things in my life – the good things that we think of as blessing and the bad stuff because they teach me a lesson, set me on the right path or turn my eyes to God.
As for birthday celebrations now, I hope for my 70th one of two things. I hope to be traveling doing another bucket list item or relaxing at home totally exhausted with all items on our list marked off and feeling joy and happiness from all the traveling we have done in the last 3 years sitting out on our large front porch sharing the glorious view the Ozark Mountain views with my hubby, a Diet Pepsi in my hand, and content that I am blessed and have so many wonderful memories.
I’d love the opportunity to read all three of the books in our fabulous giveaway. Thank you for the chance! Shared and hoping to be the fortunate one selected.
I am following the CHAPEL COVE ROMANCES on Amazon.
Kay, I just want to thank you so much for bringing such a beautiful point of view….bless you and all you have accomplished, you are an amazing woman in my eyes!
My 40th birthday was a quiet celebration. We had just moved1500 miles from all our family, and no one at work knew I had reached that milestone – a big accomplishment since I was born on Feb. 14th! (My mind was on my youngest son’s 11th birthday three days later.)
Currently, I’m setting my planning on celebrating my 39th wedding anniversary with a week of traveling the near countryside with only one location on the agenda – the remaining days will find us wherever the road leads. I’m looking forward to a few days of no deadlines with the only expectation of seeing God’s creation and exploring possibilities.
Alice, first – congrats on 39 years! And yay to the celebration plans, that sounds like so much fun!
Turning forty was my, then future daughter in law, hosting a surprise over the hill party for me at church as I was the pastors wife. I am the mother of 4 sons and now have 4 daughter in loves. That was 23 years ago and since then I’ve been blessed with grand children and one great grand. I’ve lost my husband and learned to live single again. Without God to lead me I’d be nothing.
Hugs, Laura…..what a blessing those children must be for you!
Pastor’s wives are some of the strongest people I have ever met! Sorry to hear of your loss. So glad you have such a loving family with all those grandchildren to give you much love.
40 was a rough year for me thinking of all the things I had not yet accomplishes. 50 was easier, we started traveling more. Now I will be 54. Let the good times roll.
Hey, Gina, I just turned 54 in April! Blessings on the travelling!
I am following on Chapel Cove Romances on Amazon.
Thank you for stopping by, Gina! And for following!
I just turned 40 a few months ago. It’s funny thinking back to childhood and how I thought my parents were old at 40 haha! But I really feel like another new chapter is starting, we moved with our two little girls back to my hometown to help my parents and I’m growing one of my business and ministries, and learning digital marketing, and growing another new business. I feel like I “should” have been farther along by 40 but God has more interesting plans! I also love all your books and follow Chapel Cove Romances on Amazon.
LOL, I thought 30 was old, Sarah! Thank you for sharing!
At 40 I had been in an on again/off again relationship with a guy who didn’t want to commit, so I decided to move 500 miles away to either get over him or change his mind. Well, he changed his mind and we got married. It lasted 12 years. Should have stayed away, biggest mistake of my life! But I did learn that with God’s help you can do anything.
Oh wow – now that is a journey for sure, Susan!
(((hugs)))
I’m 42 and really looking forward to this series! I’ve been married for 20 years and have two girls: 5 1/2 and almost 3 – probably pretty different from most everyone at this age. I’m loving it though 🙂 Pretty sure I follow CHAPEL COVER ROMANCES on Amazon.
Thank you for sharing, Shana! I bet those girls keep you hopping!
I can’t even remember turning 40, I can remember that I had my 7 children by then and was still in love with my husband. His bi-polarism came out later and his attempts at suicide and making sure my kids saw it to report it to me took away my love. He was murdered in 2018 by his girlfriend.
But turning 75 on May 19 was great. You think 40 you are just learning how to be yourself. At my age you know it. I am very active and involved in so many activities. But I just think I am 35 more years closer to seeing my Savior then you are at 40 if we both live out our normal lifespan.
I have seen so many things in my life. All of the wars and rumors of wars and I long for the day there “will be no more sorrows and no more tears”, Not that I don’t love my life here and love seeing my kids, grand kids and great grand kids. I do. And I want to take as many of them with me as I can.
Enjoy your life with all of its mistakes and trials. God is not finished with you yet. Nor me.
Beverly, thank you so much for sharing such deep moments with all of us, you are a woman of great faith and you will be in my prayers!
I don’t recall reading any of these books, but would like to. I’m always looking for good books!
Summer time here in Montana and I have plenty of opportunities to enjoy books outdoors! LOVE IT!!
I am sure you will find a lot to love about these books, Melissa!
40 was nothing but approaching 70 next year a different matter.
Blessings to you on 70, Jane! Hope you have an amazing year getting there!
Cool, I’m almost 40 x 2 so makeup is lips, eyebrows. Would love to get all 3 books in paperback. Keep writing ladies. Susie s.
How wonderful, Susie! Thank you for stopping by!
I just turned 40 this year and totally relate to what you said
Congratulations! Thank you for sharing!
Sorry .. I’m still in my 30s – I’ll be 38 this year.
And since I don’t know what I’m doing next week, let alone 2 years in the future … not even going to guess.
But with my current TBR stack, by the time I actually sit down and read these books .. wouldn’t surprise me if I did turn 40…..
I do follow amazon page.
Nothing to be sorry about, Megan! I certainly know what you mean about future plans, though, God’s got this!
Thank you so much for sharing with us!
Thank you so much for sharing your stories and for writing a series set in Oregon, focusing on women over 40. I definitely feel more comfortable in my own skin than I did when I was younger. I’m following the series on Amazon and can’t wait to read what you write next!
Amen to that, Liberty – I feel the same way! Thank you for visiting with us today!
Wow, 40 was almost 25 years ago and I do appreciate reading about these older characters. Lots going on at these ages, so keep them coming.Thanks for this opportunity.
Yay, Nancy! I love the more mature characters as well! Thank you for participating.
Well, I turned forty more than twenty years ago — I remember that I “dreaded” it a bit, going in, but as it happened, I was pregnant by that date, and it made me really happy. She was our sixth child and second daughter. So special. Now forty seems REALLY young to me! Sixty doesn’t seem OLD, but it’s similar to some other commenters: I have come to a certain feeling of freedom. I’m old enough that I don’t need to CARE about doing certain things I don’t want to do. I’ve occasionally found myself saying, “I don’t need to do that — ever. I’m too old!” 🙂
I love your attitude, Susan! Thank you so much for sharing!
I turned 40 so long ago that I don’t remember what I did! I refuse to let that make me depressed!
I have “followed” the series on Amazon and look forward to reading all of the books!
Thanks for this opportunity!
I think I can only remember a birthday if they make a big deal out of it, lol! I know you will enjoy this series of more mature characters!
I turned 40 almost 4 years ago!!
So many things have happened since! I lived 9 years in Rome from my mid 20’s to my mid 30’s. Those were some exciting years! I can’t believe I’m now in my mid 40’s! God has certainly blessed me always, with good and even with hard trials. But I can always say He’s been and always be my rock. I’m happy that now I live close to my parents again (since two years ago) and I can help them in their elderly years! God is good!
Love all of your books and stories! You’re awesome authors, the three of you! But this series is the one I’ve felt most related to! I’d love to have a paperback copy! ❤️
I’m already following Chapel Coves Romances in Amazon!
How exciting! Italy is on my bucket list, as my family is from there. Bless you, Paty, and thank you for sharing!
I just turned 40 yesterday, and so far it’s same old life for me. Haha! For me, turning 40 has been an odd mix of completely hating this milestone and not being a bit bothered by it.
Wow, happy birthday, Melynda! We all have our moments, lol….30 was horrible for me, 40 was a walk in the park, lol!
I don’t know, I’m not quite there yet. I’ve never really thought about it. I guess I just figured I wouldn’t even make it to forty!
I followed Chapel Cove Romances on Amazon.
Good morning, Amelia, I am glad you stopped by to share with us! Praying for you that you see 40 in style and that you have many more to come!
I’ve been 40 many times over (I am 57) lol. At 40 I was halfway through my first career as a counselor\therapist with a husband, a 13 yoa and a 2 yoa. It was a fun time, a good time in my life only to drastically change a few years later because of a divorce.
Thank you for sharing, Phyllis, keeping you in my prayers.
I am now 61 years old. Turning 40 (or any age) hasn’t been a big deal for me. Every age has its own rewards of you look forbthe.
Completely agree with you, Beverly, we can find rewards in every stage of life thanks to our Lord!
I turned 40 twenty-one years ago, so I do not specifically recall that birthday. I am just thankful to be alive and healthy.
I follow Chapel Cove Romances on Amazon.
Amen, Judy! Thank you for visiting with us!
These look delicious!
Well, they are definitely great reads, Tina!
I turned 40, 21 years ago. My forties were busy with raising my family. Luckily both of my parents were still alive!
Yes, Linda, having family around while raising children is always a plus! Thank you for sharing!
In my 40’s now. It’s been different. Busy with kids, especially when blessed with a bonus baby at 42. So I have a 20 year old in college and a 3 year old and others in between. The slower metabolism stinks! Not used to having to watch my weight! I’d love the series. I’ve already read Autumn’s.
Wow, Kim, I bet they keep you hopping! I cannot even imagine, lol! Thank you for stopping by.
I just turned 40 last October. I told my husband and family that I didn’t want anything big. But I regret it now. My sweet husband took me to my favorite restaurant and then to Hobby Lobby to pick out a birthday present. It was a nice thought. But it was a rainy, cold fall day, and I was a little dissatisfied with life that day.
While my body is getting slower and without as much energy, one good thing about turning 40 is that people are finally taking me seriously. I’ve always looked younger than my age, and though people envied me for it, they didn’t see the other side of the coin. People don’t tend to listen to and take ideas seriously from those of us who still look like we’re in college. Now that I’m aging, I feel like I’m finally being respected for a wise, intellectual thinker. 😉
Thank you for this great giveaway!
Thank you so much for sharing, Lila, I wish you had a happier 40th (((hugs)))….maybe you can plan a celebration this year, after all, the number shouldn’t matter, just being around for another year is what counts, right?!
Turning 40 to me was not traumatic like it is to some people. I was actually happy to be 40 and still be healthy and feeling good! I was a grandma at 39!! So life was good! Now I’m almost 57 and have 9 grandkids and some health problems and unable to work. I would love to win your books. I spend a lot of time reading. God is still good and I am enjoying this season of my life.
Congratulations on such a lovely family! Keeping you in my prayers health-wise, Jamie!
I’m 62 now…retired, married and very happy. By the time I turned 40, I’d had a complete Hysterectomy and major facial reconstruction to correct a FAE bone abnormality, overcome trauma from growing up in an addicted household, buried 2 parents, disowned my sister because of her choices, settled 2 parental estates, and goe back to school for 2 Masters and ordination….so, proof we make plans and G-d laughs
I am just going to say WOW Andrea….that’s pretty much all I have…(((hugs)))
One shouldn’t constantly think about age! Every day should be a day to celebrate. Do something for someone else each day and you will have a great day.
Amen, Gladys!! I feel the same wat, I love to pay it forward!
Hello, Gladys! Very well said! Thank you.
I loved the turning 40 posts. Wow, a break-up rather than a proposal. Brutal!
I know, right, Sandra? There have been some really touching stories of turning 40!
Hello, Sandra! Thank you for your kibd words! And I agree. The breakup instead of proposal was brutal. Thank you very much for stopping by!
I turned 40 almost 17 years ago! The year I turned 40 I graduated Nursing School with Honors! Turning 40 was a tad difficult(I made it a bigger deal in my mind than it was) for me but my life was and is very Blessed and now that I am closing in on 60, I am truly looking forward to it! 49 is what you make of it!! Just count all your blessings and leave the rest to the Lord!!!
Amen to that, Lisa! I try to live each day to the fullest! Thank you for stopping by and sharing!
Amen! Yes! Loved this, Lisa Mitchell! And wow on graduating from Nursing School with Honors! Thank you so much for your wonderful comment.
I honestly don’t remember turning 40. I wish I could say that about my 42nd when my husband decided he didn’t want to be married anymore. I follow Chapel Cove Romances on Amazon.
Oh wow, (((hugs))) Lori, keeping you in my prayers
Lori, I’m so sorry! Praying for you!
I’ve looked at the Chapel Cove series and followed it and it sounds like it will be a wonderful series to read. I was thankful to see the recommendation for it in Alexa Verde’s newsletter. It’s always nice to see good christian/clean books on the market.
Hope you get the chance to read them soon, Shirl! Thank you for stopping by!
Thank you so much for your kind words and reading my newsletter, Shirl! And yes, absolutely, these are faith-filled, clean, sweet romances with Christ at the center!
I love y’all’s 40th birthday stories!
For my 40th, I threw two parties on consecutive weekends. My actual birthday weekend was spent with my family. We did fun things together. The girls went for a manicure, we took family pictures, and then the family went out to eat at the fanciest restaurant in town. I had only eaten there twice before, so this was special. We got dressed up and had the best time. I even ordered creme brûlée for dessert.
The following weekend, I had a lot of my friends over and we had a great time together visiting and catching up with each other. Such a fun time! I asked them not to bring gifts, just themselves, but they didn’t listen. So, I even had a time of opening gifts in front of everyone. Then had the pleasure of writing them Thank You cards.
I’m closer to 50 now, and have been considering doing something very similar to how I celebrated my 40th birthday.
That sounds wonderful, Amy! I hope you get the chance to repeat it at 50!
Me too!
Amy, wow! I love your two celebrations of 40th birthday! Truly awesome! And now you have special and wonderful memories. I agree with Paula. I hope you’ll get to repeat it at 50!
I am following the Chapel Cove series on Amazon. I have read Cherish Me and I love it! I can’t wait to read the other two!
Hi Amanda! Thank you so much for sharing!
Amanda, thank you so much for following our series on Amazon! So glad to hear you loved Cherish Me!
I am following Chapel Cove series on Amazon. Turning 40, now that is a bad word. Lol Seriously, I hated turning 30. I did not want gifts, no cake, no card… My 2 daughters stayed with my parents the night of my 30 birthday. I wanted to be alone. Little did I know, my Daughters had had a big birthday party the next day at my parents, family and friends, I enjoyed it. They surprised me again with family on my 40th birthday. I ended up loving it. And on my 50th, it was my husband and 2 daughters and 2 son-in-law and my grandson and granddaughter. I don’t even worry about age now, Life is wonderful with grandbabies!
I was the same for my 30th, Dorothy! Now it’s just another day, lol!!
Dorothy, sounds like you have a wonderful family! How nice of them to surprise you with birthday parties! And so glad life is wonderful with grandbabies! Thank you very much for commenting and for following Chapel Cove Romances on Amazon. 🙂
I can’t remember doing anything special for my 40th.
I just remember that I wanted to get through my 40s years since I lost my beautiful 23 year old daughter. I felt like if I was in my 50s, the heartache would go away. It hasn’t.
I am so sorry for your loss, Lori… My (((hugs))) and prayers are with you.
These three books sound like good reads! I signed up for your Amazon page too! Thanks for a nice Giveaway!
Thank you for participating, MS Barb!
Thank you for your kind words about our books and many thanks for following us on Amazon, MS Barb!
I didn’t have a very good year before I turned 40 since I was diagnosed with melanoma on my back, then I was in a vehicle collision and was injured pretty badly. However, by the time my 40th Birthday came around, I was healing well and I was feeling blessed to be recovering and spending it quietly with my family.
(((hugs))) Melanie, I am so glad that things were able to settle down for your 40th. Prayers it keeps getting better for you!
Melanie, so sorry. That must have been such a horrible time for you. Praying for your complete healing.
When I turned 40, I had a 5 year old! And, I was a single mom so I was busy working, keeping up the house and playing hard. Now, I am turning 70. Seventy is the new 50. At least I feel 50. Life is good.
Awesome, Linda! Sounds like you are rocking it at 70! ❤️
Linda, I love your attitude! And yay to 70 being new 50. Thank you so much for commenting!
40 was a long time ago. LOL I probably went out for supper and then out for drinks and dancing with a few friends but nothing special. It was just another day other than I got a free meal because it was my birthday.
I already follow Chapel Cove Romance on Amazon
Thank you so much for following us, Teresa! And it’s great to celebrate birthday with friends and dancing. We apreciate you commenting. 🙂
Nothing wrong with a free meal to celebrate, Teresa!
I find it interesting that this thread began on June 6 – my 80th birthday. I don’t even remember turning 40 any more.
And I’ve been claiming that 80 is the new 60. After all, Moses didn’t get his marching orders from God til he was 80. I’m still waiting on my assignment.
Because I’m at my day job, I don’t have the password to sign into my Amazon account to follow the Chapel Cove romances, but I’ll do it this afternoon when I get off work.
I work for the local print shop 25 hours a week. And I love it! Customer service, page layout, backshop finishing. Whatever needs doing…
I love your energy, Judith! Wish you could bottle that up!
Boy, what a list of commenters! I enjoyed all of the comments. I am past 40 and enjoying life tremendously. I also follow Chapel Cove romances and congratulate you on each of them. I will send you my address by email. Can’ t handle too many unknown person emails.
I completely agree with you, Gladys, this has been so enlightening to read all the comments!
What an interesting question and I actually had to think to remember if anything significant was happening. For me, it was leaving Colorado and moving to California with them my husband and two children. Leaving behind all tht was comfortable and familiar
That is a huge change, Sharon! I hope it all went well and you are happy in California!