Embracing Turning 44 on the Road

Yesterday, I turned 44.  I woke up on top of a hill in Shreveport, Louisiana, parked at God’s Country RV Park with my kids, my aunt and uncle—feels like home.

Waking up embedding in a place like this—with peaceful views, rolling hills, and fresh air wrapping itself around me—is exactly what I need.  It’s why I love being on the road.  It grounds me.  It reminds me that even in motion, I can feel rooted.

This birthday didn’t feel particularly different—and that’s okay.  Not every milestone comes with fireworks or transformations.  Some just bring quiet confirmation that I’m still here, still evolving, and still thankful for the breath in my lungs.  That’s more than enough.

I’m learning to meet my body with gentleness.  The mornings come with stiffness, a little soreness, and the kind of creaks that remind me I’ve been here for at least a little while—but also that I’m still moving.  My yoga, my walks, my deep inhales—they bring me back to life.  They remind me of all the ways I still get to feel alive.

We resumed our summer road trip Monday after a quick detour home to fix the refrigerator and drop off my mom.  I was glad to be back on the move, chasing new views and familiar laughter.  We’re in Shreveport for a few days to celebrate my birthday, anniversaries, and the everyday joy of just being together.  There’s family by blood and family by love all around me—and food, of course.  I had my heart set on Orlandeaux’s and some good home cooking, and neither disappointed.

Being 44 feels a lot like being me.  There’s no crisis here, no fear of aging.  Just presence.  Softness.  Just appreciation.  I wouldn’t mind a little more bounce in my knees or a spine that didn’t talk back some mornings, but honestly, I’m proud of the woman I’ve become(ing).  My body may be shifting, but my spirit is standing tall.

This is the phase I’m in—one where reflection comes easy, and joy is found in the simple things: a stretch at sunrise, a quiet walk, a big laugh, the clatter of dishes after a shared meal.  Aging hasn’t changed me; it’s refined me.   And that, I welcome with open arms.

If reading this gave you a peek into how 44 feels, come see what it actually looked like. I captured the day in motion—from sunrise yoga to museum wandering, to quiet moments in the park and dinner with my people. It’s just five minutes, but it holds the full vibe. Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/khrybv3gX1c.

BTW: “Beautiful young people are accidents of nature, but beautiful old people are works of art.” – Eleanor Roosevelt.

If you’re embracing a new season too, take a moment today to honor where you are and how far you’ve come. Happy Birthday to Me!!

Other Post You May Enjoy:

Handling Travel Setbacks with Grace

Family Road Trip to Louisiana: Celebrating 92 Years with Momma Agnes in Shreveport

Rolling Into RV Life