Life Lessons

Some things I've been pondering lately:

I've learned that saying "I'm nearly 40" for a few years doesn't take the edge off of the impending reality the way I thought it would.

I've learned that buying the most spectacular designer belt in the universe--even if it's on sale-- doesn't make my waist line any smaller.

I've learned that the chocolate in my nutrition bars, nonfat yogurt and Weight Watchers desserts really, truly isn't going to replace my desire for the real thing. (seriously.)

I've learned that while men get older, women get wiser.

I've learned that no amount of Spray-N-Wash will get a 5-year-old's underpants cleaned the way I want it to.

I've learned that exercise is like dog years---skipping one week sets you back 7.

I've learned that insanity is subjective.

I've learned that friends who "knew you when" usually are the ones who "get you" now.

I've learned that real crushes don't disappear with time....they just smolder.

I've learned that my mother won't change.

I've learned that my children will.

I've learned that maturity and expensive cuts do not solve the never-ending hair style conundrum.

I've learned that there are just as many interesting people in Paris, Texas as in Paris, France...you just have to look for them.

I've learned that eating your vegetables truly is good for you.

I've learned that the loss of a pet can be one of the most painful experiences of a lifetime.

I've learned that the way to a man's heart is not through his stomach...

I've learned how to bake, broil and baste but I haven't learned to love cooking.

I've learned that no matter how old I get, my brother and sister are still older.

I've learned that doing things that make me feel guilty are usually the same things old people are wistful about.

I've learned never, ever to be embarrassed when someone I'm with laughs too loudly.

I've learned that people remember my kind words long after I've said them.

I've learned that no matter how much I've learned, I will never know enough.

I've learned that emotional growth is healthy, growing older is a blessing, and growing up is a nuisance.

I've learned that the value of friendship is beyond measure.

I've learned that love doesn't always conquer all.