1988 Was a Good Year. #Hello30

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Tomorrow I turn thirty. Sitting here just typing that has me feeling all sorts of ways. Probably because I still sometimes almost blurt out 25 when people ask how old I am or that I am surprised (even though I absolutely should not be) when I don’t get ID’d at the bar or a liquor store anymore. I remember the excitement of turning 21 like it was yesterday and now, nine years later, similar excitement is still there, just in a different way. To say my 20s have been a ride is an understatement – I know those of you who are older will laugh and are probably thinking, ‘Honey, you ain’t seen nothing yet‘ but the highs and lows of my 20s have brought me to where I am today and I’m thankful for that ride. While I’ve learned a lot these past years, I know there is still plenty left to learn and experience. 

Above image via: ROOLEE Boutique

Over the past nine years there’s been times where I’ve drank too much and slept too little – I’ve changed not only jobs, but restarted my career (twice), made lots of new friends and learned not everyone has your best interest at heart so I’ve parted ways with some others. I’ve discovered that I can handle a lot more than I ever thought I could – emotionally and physically. I’ve had some bad dates, some awkward encounters and went on the last first date I ever will have (looking at you future husband). I’ve cried a lot but laughed a lot more and been reminded that at the end of the day, no matter how old I am, a hug from my Mom can truly make the world of a difference.

I’ve learned the importance of living in the moment but not losing sight of my goals – I’ve learned taking care of myself means more than just working out and that staying in on a Saturday night can be just as fun as going out. I’ve learned to say no to things that don’t bring me joy and that it’s ok to be selfish with my time. I’ve learned life isn’t always fair but if you continually make excuses and focus on the negative you will never get a positive result. 

Arguably, most important, I’ve learned loving myself and being comfortable with who I am can be a challenge but it’s not impossible.

With (almost) 30 years under my belt I know I’ve only brushed the tip of the iceberg of what life can and likely will throw my way; this year alone, I’ll be marrying my best friend, we’re building a house and I will be moving back to my hometown (which if you would have asked me at 21 – I would have said you would never catch me living or raising a family there). But if these past years have taught me anything it’s that life is anything but linear; it’s a combination of highs and lows that are twisted, sporadic, and often uncertain, so you might as well hop on and enjoy the ride while you can. 

So today – on the eve of my 30th birthday – I can say without a shred of doubt that I may not be exactly where I thought I’d be at this point in my life but I know I’m exactly where I need to be and I cannot wait to see what else is to come my way.

PS – I’m linking this amazing Spell Designs dress below but these beautiful ‘Jessica’ earrings are part of Rachel Mulherin‘s Spring 2018 collection available HERE! Follow her on Instagram to sneak peak all the other designs in that collection – you don’t wanna miss these!

XXOO,

M

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