29 and Feeling Fine

My birthday was Monday and I was spoiled so deeply by my friends and family that it embarrasses me a little.  I stop sometimes and try to take in the love that surrounds me, but my human brain has no algorithm to process it.  

Here are some reasons I'm happy, lucky, loved, and free:

1. I got books for my birthday!  I'm reading Not That Kind of Girl right now, and I also got #Girlboss and Humans of New York.  I can't wait to take in all the STORIES!

2. Laurel showed up at my house on Monday to surprise me with love and gifts.

3. She brought these awesome rice cakes from Whole Foods (SWEET CHILI!)

4. Milo got a little sad when he woke up Tuesday and she was gone.  I love seeing how much he loves her.

5. My friends at work brought in fish chowder and apple crisp to have a little celebration at lunch.

6.  Ben, Milo, and Elliott made me cards and Milo wrote his name and I could almost figure out the letters!

7. I've been going to the gym regularly and I feel really strong.  

8. I brought some Christmas lights into my classroom and it's feeling cozier every day.

9. I've also started playing quiet classical music while we're working.  It's lovely.

10. Chicago happens SOON!

11. I bought a new outfit, including my first ever pair of skinny jeans.  I've never trusted my curves in them before, but I like how I look in these!

12. I get to snuggle my baby nephew and squeeze pouches into his mouth and spoil him with kisses.

13.  I GET TO RIDE PLANES BY MYSELF AND LINGER IN AIRPORTS OMG.

14. I get to sight see with my beautiful parents and I know at least one long life-choice talk will take place.

15. I scheduled Milo's 3 year check up and plan to take him out for a special Mama-Milo date after he gets his shots  I want to start a birthday tradition of giving the boys some one-on-one time.

16. I'm also keeping up with doctor's appointments for myself.  Taking care of yourself is basically a full time job, just to keep level at zero.

17.  I downloaded a Healthy Holiday chart that shows all the dates from now til New Years Eve.  You put a heart of days (holidays, vacations, special events) that you're not going to stress about your diet, and eat clean and chug water on every other day.  Get one here!

18. I get to make a new birthday list, and this year it will be a BEFORE 30 LIST!  I have a really good feeling about my 30s and can't wait to be in the next decade, but I will live it up in this last year of my 20s.

Thanks for listening to my spouting of gratitude.  What is making you feel lucky lately?  I'd love to hear!

(image credit)