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40's the New 30

Tamra Barney recounts her 40th birthday bash, including the backstory on her new bling.

By Tamra Judge

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Now that I'm 40, where do I start ... How about my party? Simon had full control of planning my birthday party and would not give me any details. I was a bit nervous. It was my 40th and I wanted it to be special ... and boy was it! Welcome aboard the Paradiso (a 85-foot charter yacht in Newport Beach). When I found out where my birthday was going to be held I was so excited. Who wouldn't want a party on a yacht? Simon did such an amazing job planning the party, from the food, flowers, guest list, and my favorite Sprinkles cupcakes. With all my friends and family there to help me celebrate I couldn't ask for a better celebration. Thank you, Simon!

I actually was not worried at all about turning 40. I think the editing made me look like It was the only worry I had in my life. No one wants to get old, but it is definitely better than the alternative! I try to live a healthy lifestyle, work out, and eat right, and the Botox helps. I know I'm not 20 anymore and I'm OK with that. I am happier than I have ever been in my life. I don't think life changes because you turn 40 — from what I hear it gets better. I am actually looking forward to life in my 40s. I think you worry less about the small things. Besides, 40 is the new 30. Well, it sounds good.


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OMG — the watch is amazing. No one deserves a watch like that! I was NOT expecting such an extravagant gift from Simon. The party was more then I could have asked for. I was a little embarrassed. I personally do not like getting gifts, especially when people are watching me open them. Simon is a giver and loves holidays and birthdays. He always gives the best presents ever. As much as I love the watch, I already have a beautiful Rolex that I wear everyday. The new one is for "dressing up," so I do not wear it that much. I'm afraid someone will cut my arm off. But when I do wear it to those special places, I will always remember what a wonderful 40th birthday I had.

Last year was quite a learning experience for me. Like most stay-at-home mothers, I spent so much time doing things for other people that I felt like I was losing my identity in the process. So, I decided that I would continue to take care of my family, but I was determined to make myself a priority. I hired a part-time nanny, starting working, went to lunch with friends, joined boot camp, hit the tanning salon, went away with the girls to San Diego, and drank WAY too much. Although it was a lot of fun, truthfully It really isn't who I am. I will continue my real estate career; I will continue working out and keeping my self fit, and having lunch with the ladies. However, my first priority will always be my kids and husband. Trying to find that perfect balance in life is hard, but after 40 years I think I have it figured out now. I might be 40 but I will always be that quirky, silly, smart-ass girl I was in my 20s ... That's just me!

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