Quarter of a Century

I'm 25.

Yep, it's official - I have lived for a quarter of a century, kinda crazy right?

I feel like this is a bit of a big deal and quite a milestone. Nothing too serious but I guess I feel the need to jot down some thoughts I've had about turning 25 (maybe some day my posterity will care what I was up to when I was 25).

This was my the first birthday that I didn't totally look forward to - I am officially getting "old." I know 25 is not that old, but I'm no longer in my early 20's and 30 is coming up. I'm not really afraid to get old but I have just always had the idea that I would be young forever - and the reality is starting to settle in. This morning I plucked out 6 gray hairs - yes, all out full grown gray hair. So yes, the "old-ness" is starting to set in.

Regardless of starting to feel old, I feel like I am in an amazing place in life. I have accomplished so much in the last 25 years and am happy to say I wouldn't change too much. I had an amazing childhood, enjoyed my teenage years (the good, the bad and the ugly), experienced and graduated from college, bought my first home (which I love), met, fell in love, and married the man of my dreams (who far exceeds anything I could have even dreamed about), and am now currently living my mini version of "happily ever after" - meaning the bliss that is being a newlywed.

 I've been told many times that happiness is enjoying the journey and today I have had an overwhelming sense of that. For the first time in my life I am completely content with where I am in life. I'm sure a lot of that comes with maturity and growing up (which means I may just be at the apex where I'm not wishing I was older and not quite wishing I was younger). I know I have so much ahead of me and so much more to go on this journey, but for now I'm happy just to be where I am.

I got to spend today with my favorite people - my family. I couldn't ask anyone better. I have been beyond blessed with the friendship and relationship I have with my parents, siblings, in-laws, and even my nieces and nephews. They have made me who I am and are a part of me in so many ways. I was grateful for them taking time to come and share today with me - their company is truly the greatest gift.

So even as time keeps marching on and I know there is no way to stop or slow the inevitable effects of aging, I'm grateful for the maturity to be able to start enjoying the journey.

I had an amazing birthday today - it was perfect in every way. It was my first birthday being married (one of our last "firsts") and as with many things with marriage, it brings a whole new dimension. Waking up with my best friend and getting to enjoy the day with him is the best way to spend my special day. 

I think I am going to like being 25 - 24 was a big year for me, but I think it's just going to keep getting better.