Let me tell you something, folks. Kelly Ripa celebrated her 50th birthday in the most perfect way possible—surrounded by her family and a few close friends. Her husband of many years, Mark Consuelos, and their three amazing kids made sure it was a day she'll never forget. According to an insider who exclusively spoke to Closer Weekly, Ripa is feeling absolutely blessed with her life right now. She's got a loving family and a thriving career hosting Live With Kelly and Ryan. Life is good, and she’s soaking it all in.

A Birthday Like No Other

Now, picture this: Kelly Ripa turning 50. For some people, that might feel like a milestone they'd want to avoid, but not Kelly. She celebrated her big day exactly the way she wanted—surrounded by the people she loves most. “Kelly celebrated her 50th exactly how she wanted: at home with Mark, the kids, and a couple of close friends,” the source said. The celebration took place in early October, and it was filled with all the things Kelly loves. Mark, being the thoughtful guy he is, got her flowers, balloons, her favorite cheese spread, a delicious birthday cake, and, of course, some stunning jewelry. It was a day filled with joy, laughter, and love. And honestly, who wouldn’t want to celebrate like that?

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Thank you! Yes you, and everyone who made me feel so loved. I am 50. There. I said it 😂🎂🎁🎉🎈 #birthday #50
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A post shared by Kelly Ripa (@kellyripa) on Oct 4, 2020 at 9:53am PDT

Family First: The Heart of Kelly's Life

Aside from her love for her day job co-hosting with Ryan Seacrest, whom she adores, Kelly takes immense pride in raising her three children—Michael, 23, Lola, 19, and Joaquin, 17—with Mark, the handsome actor known for his role in Riverdale. “Her kids are young adults now, and they’re making smart choices. She couldn’t be prouder of them,” the insider shared. Kelly always joked about parenting being a gamble, but so far, it seems like she’s hitting all the right notes. The source added, “She and Mark couldn’t be closer. They owe that to their compatibility and hard work. Marriage takes effort, and they definitely put in the work.”

The Journey to Happiness

It wasn’t always easy for Kelly to get to this place of happiness. It took a lot of hard work and dedication to get where she is today. Over time, Kelly learned that giving it your all will eventually pay off. “Once she realized that hard work, perseverance, and honesty were the keys to life, things just started falling into place,” the source explained. Kelly isn’t perfect, and she doesn’t pretend to be. But she’s still driven, just not in the same way she was when she was younger. She’s found balance, and it’s working for her.

Kelly Ripa and her family — Courtesy of Kelly Ripa/ Instagram

Back in her early Hollywood days, Kelly felt so insecure, and she wishes she could go back and tell her younger self not to worry so much. “She’s fallen down and made many mistakes, but looking back, she sees that putting family first is all that ever mattered. Work is important, but it can’t be her priority,” the insider revealed. With her kids growing up and starting their own lives, Kelly’s making sure to cherish every moment as a mom. “Kelly has to pinch herself regularly,” the source shared. “She says she’s no longer looking for the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. She’s content and couldn’t ask for anything more.”

And honestly, who could blame her? Here's to Kelly Ripa, a woman who knows what matters most in life. You go, mama!