Another Perspective
I feel like I should preface this blog post by stating that I've been putting moisturizer on my face since I was 16, and that I've been using anti-wrinkle cream since I was 19. I'm all for people doing what it takes (within reason) to feel confident. This post isn't to address what we do to preserve our outer youth, but it's to address the mindset that people have on their birthday. One thing I've noticed as I get older and wiser (ha), is that people seem to actually be insecure about getting a year older. What's the deal? Why dread something that is completely inevitable, when you can celebrate it?
Look, I love any excuse to celebrate (I literally LOVE the act of celebrating) and to pop bottles. Personally, I think birthdays rule. I turn 29 tomorrow. Sure, it's sort of crazy to think that I'm like a legitimate adult (well, mostly), but I'm stoked!
Birthdays sort of remind me of New Years but focused on you and only you. It's the one day a year you can (and should be) completely self-oriented. They give you a marker to reflect and celebrate the fact that you've successfully survived another 365 days - which, depending on your life, can be quite a feat. But it also acts as a kick-start to the next 365 days.
Some of my highlights of year 28:
- I've really made some incredible friends in South Florida this year. I am so thankful to have them in my life.
- I'm doing work that I am passionate about, and working with people I immensely respect both professionally and personally.
- Because of my job I've gotten to travel and see and do things I might not have otherwise done! Case in point - going bobsledding down THE Olympic track in Park City, UT!
- I still love where I live. It's hard not to when you're 3 blocks from the beach, and in walking distance to some pretty fun spots. I resigned a lease for the first time in my life this fall.
- I can't make a post like this without mentioning my family. My family continues to be the best. And in year 28 we got to celebrate my aunt (and God-mother!) marrying the man of her dreams who I love getting to call Uncle Carl.
- My parents visited me in Soflo and we ate, drank, and were merry. It was a blast to throw down with them.
- Went to my first NFL game.
- Went to several NHL games.
- I joined a gym. AND I STILL GO! And I love it.
- Boats. yachts. bottles. And tales that should never be written. ;)
Look, there were also some pretty awful things that happened in year 28 (getting roofied, a friend committing suicide to name a couple), but you just have to make yourself focus on the good things. And when you take the time to take note of the high points of your year you should feel invigorated about the year you just had. And if you don't, maybe change the way you live - I mean that genuinely, not in an indignant way.
So hell yes I'm going to celebrate how great year 28 was! And I'm going to drink to making year 29 even better! So on that note, please pass me the champagne.
