Goodbye and Hello....

A shirt my dear Madre' made for me

Prepping to blow out the candles on the cake my Mom created. I think it is called "better than sex cake".
But that title shouldn't apply during my early 30's right? At least that's what "they" say.  :)

I rolled into my first day of being 30 with braids in my hair.

My flat iron decided to die as a welcoming gift to my 3rd decade of life.

But all is well... it had been a long time since I had turned to one of my older sisters and asked, "can you braid my hair please?"

It was nice... and comforting.

Throughout my life my b-day has usually fallen during the time my family reunion takes place, out in the wild (wild for us), roughin' it, camping underneath the stars.... with my favorite people.

Some would complain, but I'm the dork who is crazy in love with her extended family and wouldn't want to be any other place.

Plus my family goes above and beyond making me feel special and this year wasn't any different. Thanks sisters and my Mawampskidog (that's my mom's nickname and she isn't very happy right now that I shared it with the world - but it's FOR SURE a term of endearment. Love you mom.) for all of your preparation and consideration - also you, The Beloved. I love your guts the most.

30 is kind of a big deal.

I should be 30 right... I mean, I have four kids... 25 wouldn't be ideal.

But it's weird.

I sometimes wonder, do I look 30? What does 30 even look like?

I've been fretting about turning 30 since I was 27 so in a way it is a relief the day finally arrived. It's over with. No more worrying. Plus I have 5 good years until I start worrying about turning 40.

Ridiculous. :)

I created a tiny, tiny bucket list of things I wanted to accomplish before the big day.

1. Shoot a gun (check. Sucked at it, but check.)

2. Learn how to play the guitar. (check. Loving it.)

3. Work out at least 3 times a week. (check. I have five unruly lbs that don't seem to care about my efforts but check nonetheless.)

4. Stop drinking Pepsi. (Nobody's perfect.)

Before the big day I had an afternoon date with my little mother. She spoiled me rotten with clothes, lunch and her time.

 I so love your company Mom - thanks for the memorable day.

I ended my 30th b-day at The Beloved's parents house. My mother-in-law and I share the same birthday and it was fun being together to celebrate. She's wonderful.

A friend told me the second 30 are better than the first...

and I believe it.

Less pressure, more adventures, discovery, and people around you to love.

I'm a lucky girl.

So, farewell 20's.

I've enjoyed the trail.