One week ago, I took another trip around the sun! Each year at this time, a dear friend (you know who you are) prompts me to answer two questions. First, what was the best thing that happened last year? And second, what am I most looking forward to this year? While I may pretend I don't enjoy this game, I really do. And because this is a big birthday, for no other reason than it ends in a '5,' I've done a bit of extra reflection. Here, you'll find my insights - some meaningful, some trivial - from the past year:
You are only as old as you make up your mind to be. (Running my third marathon this year and feeling stronger than I did at 30 or 32!)
But because age can be loaded, remember this: "Everyone in this world works based on their time zone. People around you might seem to be ahead of you, & some might seem to be behind you. But everyone is running their own race, in their own time. You're not late. You're not early. You're very much on time."
It's okay to get an ice cream cone at 10:00 p.m. on a weeknight.
We are very lucky for the medical care we have in this country.
Also, the system is far from perfect.
Protect your sleep, your time off, and your energy.
You may be sad to leave where or what you've been, but if you're excited for where you're going, it's the right move. (Thanks Linds!)
Things will happen to you that are terrible and unfair.
But with the above, try to view these as opportunities - or dare I say - even blessings in disguise.
Pickling your own veggies is so easy! Asparagus is my fave, but you can do red onion, cucumbers, radishes, whatever.
Trust your intuition and speak up when something bothers you. I did not regret the times that I did, and the times that I didn't, I wished I had.
You only get one body. May as well love it (and heck, flaunt it).
Through my work with rescues, I've seen and heard some pretty terrible things. If animals can love again after what they've been through, we can too.
Tofu can be surprisingly delicious (I had never cooked with it before this year). If this post inspires you, check out THIS site - hasn't let me down yet.
Wear what you like and don't ask for anybody's permission. I've found it's the pieces and outfits I love the most, however funky they may be, that seem to be best received. As Harry Winston said, "People will stare, make it worth their while.”
The pandemic made clear that friendships don't just happen, they take effort. Put it in, and hopefully it will return to you.
Along with that, I came to the realization that chemistry is needed, not just for romantic partners - but friendships too (ask me about the "girl date" I was set up on).
Sometimes all it takes is a smile and a wave. Take that for what you will.
If you're feeling restless, especially after being cooped up inside like we have this year, try re-arranging your living space. It's like a whole new apartment, but free-99!
Travel is feasible, even in times like these. Let go of your perceptions of what it needs to look like and remove the barriers which prevent you from making moves.
With that, never underestimate the power of a good plan for your jetsetting. Shameless self-promotion? Maybe ;) (but I really do believe this)
If you're in a role or place where you're using your talents, great. If you're not, is there a way to carve out a space for you to do so? And on the other side of the coin...If you're in a place that actively tears them down, run!
Don't skimp on proper footwear. It may literally help you move (across) mountains.
Doing things by yourself is not weird. You are the only one thinking about it, I promise you.
My personal opinion? Don't buy a wine subscription. A beverage that is readily available, is one that is taken for granted.
We need interaction with strangers just as much as those we know.
Don't leave valuables in your car.
Treat your body well, and it will pay dividends. Health is a lifelong commitment, not something to "start" one day.
Take 20 minutes and plug your friends' birthdays into your Google calendar, setting as a recurring appointment. They are to be celebrated!
Invest in a record player. Not only is the sound uniquely amazing, but it's a built-in lifelong hobby.
You can find some really good food coming out of alleys.
People mostly want to help - let them.
That said, we are very quick to judge and pick sides. Avoid the "only if it happens to me" mentality.
If something you want to do or see is booked or full online, try calling. You just might get in.
Getting older is a blessing. This year in particular has taken way too many, too soon.
Love these!