29 Truths … As I turn 29

Today is my 29th birthday. My last year in my 20s!

It’s interesting. Someone recently asked me if I was dreading entering my 30s next year, and the answer is no! I think it is a privilege to age, and with our little one coming in February, and more babes to come (hopefully), my 30s will be my most challenging and rewarding years yet.

So, as I ring in another trip around the sun, here are 29 truths that I’d like to share:

  1. Make your bed every day — even if it’s right before you get in it.
  2. Set boundaries. Get comfortable saying “no.” If the person you are setting boundaries with does not respect you, tell them.
  3. Your family doesn’t get a free pass for toxic behavior.
  4. That being said, you choose your own family and circle. Sometimes your friends are more loyal to you than your own family. Embrace that. Welcome them in.
  5. If you can’t find something, clean up the clutter.
  6. Be proud of your body. It protects you, nourishes you, and keeps you safe. Love yourself.
  7. Your health comes first. It comes before any job, any person, family or friend. Take care of yourself and put yourself first.
  8. It is more than OK to watch the same movies and TV shows over and over again if it brings you joy.
  9. The book is, in many cases, always better than the movie.
  10. Write down what you are grateful for each day.
  11. Read lots of books. You’ll love it. And start that book blog and bookstagram! You’ll make some lifelong friends there.
  12. Know your worth.
  13. If you recognize that someone needs help, reach out to them. Don’t put it off until the next day.
  14. Travel when you can — even if it’s within your own state.
  15. Success is not measured by material things.
  16. Fight for the things you believe in.
  17. Don’t compare yourself to others.
  18. If you are with loved ones, put the damn phone away and be present.
  19. Try new foods!
  20. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. And, remember, failing isn’t always a negative thing.
  21. Don’t Google things when you are pregnant. Just call your doctor.
  22. Basic human rights is not something you can, or should, “agree to disagree” on.
  23. Eat that slice of cake.
  24. Trust your doctors — not a random man on YouTube or articles you find on Facebook.
  25. Recognize your triumphs. Never be afraid to toot your own horn.
  26. Have those tough conversations. They are uncomfortable, but you will feel free.
  27. Everyone has a story.
  28. Light a few candles when you are down … it really helps!
  29. Never forget your truths.


What are some of your truths? I want to hear them!

Cheers to 25 Years!

Hey all—today is my 25th birthday!

This morning I woke up next to my amazing husband and I took some time to be mindful and reflect on my life so far. I thought about all of my achievements, but I also reflected on the challenges and obstacles I have faced. Everything that I have experienced has made me the person I am today. Even in the last few years, I have experienced growth that I could have never imagined. This past year, I started graduate school, grown in my profession, celebrated my one-year wedding anniversary, traveled, improved my habits, developed a steady writing ritual, and so much more. I am extremely excited to see what 25 will bring!

I thought it would be fun to write down 25 things/values that I have learned and practice. I hope you have fun reading them, and that they have an impact on your life as well. Enjoy!

  1. Take care of yourself first.
  2. You are not defined by the way you look or how others perceive you.
  3. The best way to escape is to get lost in a good book.
  4. Sometimes there will be people who are in your life for a short amount of time. Let them go, but appreciate the time you spent with them.
  5. Show up. Be present. Work hard and show initiative.
  6. Always keep a journal.
  7. Your siblings are a true gift, and they are your best friends for life.
  8. Be humble, but recognize your successes too.
  9. Your family is not just blood; you choose your family.
  10. Eat that piece of cake!
  11. Find something that is good for your soul. (For me, it’s crafting.)
  12. Watch the movies you love and read the books you love—even if it is the 20th time.
  13. Don’t tweet that. Write it down instead.
  14. Forgive yourself for your past mistakes.
  15. Take time each day to write down what you are grateful for.
  16. If someone has a different opinion, listen to them. Talk and compromise.
  17. Travel!
  18. Everyone has a story. Be patient.
  19. Hold on to friends who check in on you. Your best friends are those who you see every now and then and nothing changes.
  20. Success isn’t measured by the size of your home, your car, or material objects. It is measured by the quality of your character and your treatment of others.
  21. When you’re making coffee, always add an extra scoop for good luck.
  22. Put your phone down. Look around you. Live in the moment. Sometimes the best pictures are those you keep for yourself.
  23. Advocate for those who can’t.
  24. They are PHOTOSHOPPED. You are beautiful!
  25. Always stay true to yourself.

 

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