This week I turn 50. Five. Zero. Wow.
I’ve been mentally preparing for this milestone for months, but now that it’s here, I find myself sitting in a swirl of emotions. I didn’t want a big celebration, balloons spelling out my age, or random internet people making jokes about getting older. I honestly just wanted to quietly slide into this new decade—preferably with my head in the sand and no one noticing the rest of me sticking out.
Of course, that’s not how life works. My mom made it clear: there would be a celebration. So I took the reins and planned something that feels right—a cozy dinner with my closest friends and family. I’m happy with that.
But more than what I didn’t want for my 50th, I’d love to share what I did want—and more importantly, what I’ve done this past year to arrive at this birthday feeling proud, empowered, and strong.
Reclaiming My Health
After 20+ years in Spain (read my bio), moving back to the U.S. shook my lifestyle in ways I didn’t expect. I went from mountain biking, trail running, and walking 20–30K steps a day under the Andalusian sun to a sedentary, car-bound life in the Midwest. My body felt the shift—weight gain, less energy, and a real loss of motivation.
The biggest red flag wasn’t the weight. It was the discomfort I felt in my own skin—literally. I started having itching and burning sensations in intimate areas. It turned out to be a symptom of Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM)—something far too few women are warned about—and linked to both hormone changes and gut health.
Let’s just say… thanks, American diet.
A Year of Change
In August of last year, I made some powerful decisions:
- I took a break from alcohol (again), and every time I do, I’m reminded how amazing it feels—clear skin, no hangovers, better sleep, and a serious boost in confidence.
- I started lifting weights regularly. I’m not the 111 lb. triathlete I once was, but I’m also not the sluggish, bloated version of me that emerged after my return. I’m stronger—and that feels better than thin ever did.
- I prioritized protein, fiber, and whole foods, aiming to nourish rather than restrict.
- I stopped punishing myself with calorie counting and instead focused on building strength and feeding my body with care.
I still experience some symptoms—headaches, mood swings, hormonal shifts—but I’m learning to work with my body, not against it. And day by day, I’m becoming a healthier, more energized version of myself.
Shifting My Mindset
One of the biggest transformations I’ve made isn’t physical—it’s mental. Instead of mourning what I left behind in Spain, I started embracing what I have here. I began writing daily gratitude statements and reminding myself how privileged I am to have this life, this body, and this chance to begin again.
Now, just days from turning 50, I feel proud. Proud that I took my health seriously. Proud that I’ve created a version of midlife that isn’t about decline—it’s about strength, clarity, and growth.
To All the Women Navigating Midlife…
Perimenopause, aging, career shifts, identity changes—midlife can feel overwhelming. But here’s what I know for sure:
We can do hard things.
We are allowed to put ourselves first.
And when we do, we become the best version of ourselves—not just for us, but for everyone around us.
So this Friday, I’ll raise a glass of sparkling water to the woman I’ve become—and to every woman reading this who’s on her own journey.
You are strong. You are wise. You are just getting started.