One Year Short Of 30

Aren't birthdays such a funny thing? Every year I become less excited about getting older, and more excited about figuring out how to look younger, feel my best, and be at my healthiest. Every year comes with a set of challenges and learning experiences that never cease to amaze me. This year was an interesting one for sure. I got engaged, switched careers, made the cover of a magazine, and maintained this blog like I always do. I am so lucky to have this online journal of sorts to keep for years to come.

One thing that I thought about yesterday that made me sad was the fact that I don't really write anymore. Besides the occasional outfit post, I feel like my blog has become less about my personal life, and more of a "business" if you will. Sitting down to write this post seemed a bit odd, because it's been a long time since I really shared some personal feelings on here. It's not on purpose either, life just gets busy, and sometimes I honestly don't feel like I have time to think, let alone write. As I sit here and write this while I sniffle and sneeze, I can't complain at all, because at this moment, I am finally feeling relaxed!

So this year, my post will be a little bit different. Every year I do a post about what I have learned (Last year's post), or what I know thus far. This year will be less outlined, and more of me just thinking through typing. 

Every year I find myself learning so many different things that are important to me, and I think the most important thing I have learned is that it's SO incredibly necessary to surround yourself with the greatest of people. I have lost people that I thought would always be here, and although it saddens me, it also makes me realize that maybe they just weren't meant to be there in the first place. Finding yourself, and letting go of things that don't benefit you anymore, is simply part of the process. I think one of the most important things I have come to realize this year is that my friends and family mean so much to me, they are the true guiding light of everything that I am, and I can't wait to grow older with all of them in my life.

I have also learned, that most of the little bullshit that bothers us in life simply, does not matter. What matters is waking up and feeling like you're being the best you can be. Whatever that means to you, just be it. You're waking up knowing you're doing what you want to do, and making yourself proud-that's what matters. We all have different roads to travel, and at the end of the day it doesn't matter which way you go, as long as you're happy and as long as you're a good person, good things will come. I truly believe that we all get what we put out, and positive always attracts positive.

I tend to be really hard on myself by nature, and this year has been nothing different. I am a perfectionist who strives to succeed in everything that I do, and this can be both a blessing a curse. I have also learned that it's important to embrace who YOU are. The good, the bad, the ugly, the pretty, the crazy, it's all apart of you, and it all needs lovin- so love yourself, because no one is going to do it for you.

So this year, I am focusing on the things I am grateful for, and trying to let go of the things that don't help me grow. I find my happiness in the little things nowadays. Going on dates with Ryan, photography, snuggling with Ollie, spending time with my family, watching movies over and over, cooking dinner, and most importantly, making time for this little blog that has brought me so much love. Although I am struggling with the thought of getting older, I do love my birthday, and I love my life at this present moment. 

The possibilities in life are endless and I can't wait to see what the future holds for me. Thank you to everyone who reads this blog, and to all of those who have supported me through every endeavor- big or small. This blog is a huge part of who I am , and the past five years wouldn't have been the same without this creative outlet in my life.

Here's to 29! Let's kick some serious ass!