Thirty-one

Thirty-one.

Feels nice. Like settling in. Thirty was not bad. I didn’t dread it or anything. It treated me well. But thirty-one? Call me crazy but I’m just really looking forward to it.

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The lovely Kelle Hampton posted a list of things she learned this year for her birthday. As always, she has inspired me and so, here is my list.

From age 30, I learned…

… big gestures are wonderful and they do have their place. But the quick, small ‘Hi!’ or ‘I’m thinking about you!’ or ‘I saw/did/read/heard this and thought of you!’ – those are what makes the world go ‘round.

… traveling is so much better with wifi.

… a day at the beach brings out the best in me.

… I loathe wearing shoes. Bare feet are happy feet.

… I simultaneously love the luxury of sleeping in AND the beautiful quiet of rising before the sun (and toddler).

… if you entertain a two-year-old with something interesting, she will sit still long enough for you to french braid her hair.

… time with family is more important, urgent, worthwhile, necessary than anything I have to do on any day.

… it is OK to be really girly every once in a while.

… friendships are key to happiness and, as such, they must be nurtured.

… age just represents a number of years. Not a definition or expectation.

~~~~~

This morning, we celebrated at the Natural History Museum’s butterfly conservatory. Nothing spells birthday magic like walking hand-in-hand with the ones you love the most while dozens of beautifully colored wings flutter around your head.

Feel the flutter indeed.

The celebrations continue with more family time and a rare date-night at my most favorite restaurant in the city.

Hello thirty-one. So far, you’re looking just lovely.