Four decades

My first decade: I remember the least about this one, although I guess arguably it's the most important (since it includes my birth and all). What stands out to me is that I was an only child, growing up on a ranch several miles from a small town in Texas. I was pretty good at playing by myself and "pretending" all sorts of things. I liked to draw. My life wasn't anything like the life my kids lead today.

My second decade: This one was defined by my peers and, like many a teenage girl, being social and popular. Not a bad gig in a small town. I enjoyed it immensely.

My third decade: Although at the start of this decade I was still in college, what defined this decade was law school and the best thing I took from law school -- my husband. In this decade I grew up, became responsible for myself, and achieved professional success. More importantly, I met and married the man who would define the rest of my life. Despite the fact that I never would have characterized a man as defining my life.

My fourth decade: This one was the most unexpected, and the best. I became a parent. To four children in a span of three years. My priorities changed. I enjoyed parenthood more than I ever imagined I would. I worked harder at it than I ever imagined I would have to. My kids are greater than I ever imagined kids could be. That guy I married became more than just my husband, but also my partner in parenting. It has definitely been the most fulfilling decade yet.

Onto the fifth decade . . . .