A Birthday to Remember

It happened. I tried to stop it, prepare for it and finally must accept it. I turned 30. There are many, many things that excite me about this new decade of life. Yet, I can't help but feel a little sadness for the time gone by. Memories seem to fade so fast now and I want to hold onto them with all my might. Few have been so lucky as I have in finding the most incredible friends. Something as simple as looking into their faces will warm your heart and free you from whatever may be ailing you.  This past weekend I had the chance to do just that with a few of my lovely ladies from Minnesota. So many of you back home whom I couldn't see, I truly wish I had also. It was a rejuvenating, yet draining few days. Not because there was a single moment where I wished it would be over, but because I knew once today came...it would be. 

Michon, Kori, Laura, Christy and Deanna arrived in the late afternoon on Thursday and I have sore abdominal muscles from laughing so much. We had an incredible time together. Lots of relaxing, cocktailing, silliness and joyfulness took place. Even though sometimes it was too brief, I was able to spend a little one and one time with each of them. We've all had trying times recently and it seemed as we all needed to spend a little time with good people. It is probably one of the birthdays where I felt the most loved. 

The party itself went by much too quickly. So many new friends came which showed me that my move to L.A. has been even more successful than I expected. The new and long time friends mingled with ease, which made me glad to see. Many gave lovely, heartfelt gifts that are sincerely appreciated. Gift enough was just being near me, though. 

I am left today feeling slightly sad, but in a rather fulfilling way. I have had to say "so long" to some things in my life; such as, my twenties, living in Mpls and those back home who are so important to me. I've also opened this new chapter; my thirties, living in L.A. with new cohorts who will keep me plenty busy. 

My manager at work put three candles the cake she gave me. She explained it had dual meaning. First, the obvious, which is turning 30. Second, they stood for celebrating the past, present and future. It is rare something hits as poignant as that and I plan to relish in the celebration.

Until next time...