Well, I'm now 40. And I can't sleep. Don't thinkb there's a causal relationship there...

After much angst and anxiety, the birthday bash passed off in much jollity as far as I could tell. Not much mixing between the family and friends cohorts, but many pleasant smiles and nods. Of course three glasses of champagne may have skewed my perceptions somewhat.

The present thing was completely overwhelming, as expected. Except more so. I now own sapphires, gift vouchers, cook books, vases, cooking gear, an evening bag, body products and a contraption to hold my iron & ironing board behind a door! And really, the sight of your happy smiling faces was enough.

Thanks to those lj attendees: erudito, hometime & sjkasabi. Thanks also to the other, less exhibitionistic friends, who are unlikely to read this but you never know. Four of the people in the friends cohort I've known for more than half my life!

Received many compliments on appearance, which was gratifying. One famously blunt spoken friend assured me no-one would pick me for 40. Which is weird in a way because there's the infamous incident when I turned 29, when a colleague asked how old I had turned, and when I told him, he said, "Ah bullshit, you can't be so old you have to make something up!" So I asked how old he thought I was (as the brighter male colleagues winced and began tiptoeing to the door). The poor schmuck thought I was around 40 then. I guess I improve with age!!

The festivities continue tomorrow with a casual brunch at mine. I have plans for a mega chil-friendly gathering for those with children a little later in the month when some of the usual suspects get back from holidays.

Now all I want is for that cool change to kick in.