Birthday Thoughts

Today is my birthday. I am 24 years old. Oddly enough, unlike other birthdays, this one does feel different. Mostly because I feel like I've gone from my early 20s to embarking on my mid-20s. Strange. Especially when I look back at what's happened in the last four-five years in my life. 


It's strange to think of who I was even just a year ago, let alone three or four. I feel like I have more willingly and easily come into myself, figured out who I am and what I want from life. I feel...settled. And not in a bad way. Just, no more turmoil. I know who I am. 


I....accepted. That's probably the word. I have accepted and embraced who I am. That really happened this past year. It took a lot of growing and internal conflict, along with a lot of really good soul-searching and seeking. But I finally am happy with myself. Well, happy's not the right term. It's too shallow. Mmm...I feel at peace with who I am. That's a better term. Relaxed, peaceful, and happy. 


Not to say I won't continue to grow. I will. I will always be growing and learning more about myself. But for now, I feel very settled into who I am. And, after the years of turmoil, struggle, and stress, it feels really good. 


This past year has not been anything spectacular (in terms of things that happened). Things progressed as they always do. Life was life. And it feels like yesterday I was celebrating last year's birthday. 


This year, though. This year is going to be interesting. Big changes coming up. New adventures on the horizon. 


I am honestly excited to see what this year is going to hold. And how many adventures will happen. Who knows where I'll be this time next year? (Oh goodness, let's just stick with this year for now). 


In 9 days, Hubby and I will be leaving for a glorious 9 days of vacation. 


In 2 days, we will be leaving to see Hubby's brother's play in VA (Thanks Mom and Dad!). 


All in all, the next week will fly by, and then we will be on vacation. What a great way to start a new year! (Erm, in my life, not the New Year).  


There are things today that I am very grateful for and also things I miss. 


Yellow cake with chocolate frosting. 
That one cake stand. 
So many candles you set off the fire alarm.
Presents. 
Mum's hugs. 
Brother and sisters. 
Friends I haven't seen for a while, whether because of time or distance.
Good friends. 
My job.
My husband. 


All in all, I am a very blessed and loved woman. And I am very thankful for the last 24 years, and I cannot wait to see what the next 24 have in store. Many more adventures, I would imagine.