28

from 16 may 2017, my birthday.

If you haven’t noticed, this year has been a big year of self-discovery for me. One of the biggest things I’ve learned about myself is how future-oriented I am. I like to create, come up with new ideas, and dream of future plans. Often times I can build up something and then be disappointed when it doesn’t live up to what I imagined or even that it’s actually happening.

It’s a little embarrassing to admit out loud, or I guess to put in writing, that I often have found myself sad at the end of my birthday. Over time I’ve noticed this and have done my best to be realistic or even to explain to Jordan that I LOVE my birthday, to go all out.

This year, when Jordan was working nights on my birthday, I couldn’t really rely on him. I had to take charge myself and it ended up being one of the best birthdays. I was ok with it being imperfect and focused more on spending time with those I loved and savoring the moment with them.

With Jordan working nights it meant that we were able to celebrate my birthday during the day. After he rested we headed for cupcakes at one of my favorite coffee shops in the area. It was an added perk when they said I got a free cupcake for my birthday. They looked at me funny when I said, “it’s my husbands birthday tomorrow too! and it was my daughter’s a few days ago”.

Since Jordan was working, I planned my own birthday party. I invited some friends of mine to gather together for a sunset picnic in the park. It was everything I could have imagined, so simple and sweet.

My friend Jess gifted me these beautiful peonies from her backyard, thank you, jess, flowers are my favorite.

everyone brought something to add to the picnic.

love you all

we were having difficulty keeping the candle lit, and I got my hand in the way and Ginger totally got me with the match. This photo was taken right after and is hilarious.

In the end, I felt so loved and grateful. My friend Ana came over afterward to continue to keep me company and it was so sweet. It’s taken me years to realize, but it’s ok if everything’s not a crazy adventure (as long as there are a few thrown in the mix) but it’s important to be present.

Last year I wrote some thoughts on turning 27 and reflecting on the year, so I thought I would do the same (some 5 or so months after my birthday)

reflecting on year 28:

In general, this year was way less exciting then year 27, in maybe the best way possible. We feel mostly settled in our new home and city, better learning how to navigate parenthood, at least it doesn’t feel so new, and residency for Jordan isn’t feeling AS tiring, though still tiring. But, as I begin to reflect, this year was just as exciting, and definitely one of the best:

1. We traveled to Europe, which is hands down my favorite thing of this year. It was a dream that happened on a whim and the entire trip felt like a dream.
2. Jordan and I celebrated 5 years of marriage and it was a good milestone. I’m so grateful for Jordan and the way he compliments me in all ways.
3. We found out we are expecting a little baby in the fall! I’m exactly 12 weeks pregnant in these photos.
4. We did a lot more traveling, to South Carolina, Portland, and San Diego. We’ve found that our family functions the best while on an adventure, and so we take advantage of Jordan’s vacation days for sure.
5. I started writing sponsored posts on this blog which has been so fun and stretching me creatively. And being able to contribute, even if just a tiny bit, financially has felt so good.
6. Our community here has continued to grow in such neat ways. We started hosting our community group and leading. It’s more natural and not as scary as I thought it would be.
7. Ruby started talking and it’s the best, I’ve really gotten to know more of who she is, her character, her unique personality. What a gift it is to continue to get to know her and play a part in pointing out the things that make her beautiful.
8. When not traveling, we spend a lot more days at home or sticking close by and going on walks or bike rides.
9. While the beginning of 2017 was really rough health wise, and I thought would just continue to go downhill with pregnancy, but I started feeling great towards the middle of my first trimester.

It was a little more challenging thinking back so far, but I’m thankful to have this space to document our days and remember the years. Year 29, so far has been a pretty good one. I was nervous for this year as the start of 2017 was rough, but so far it’s been great and really laid back. I continue to learn more about myself, my need, but also distaste for routine. And working on establishing some healthy practices before life with two children begins. These years keep moving quickly, but I am so grateful for each one.