September 24, 2010

Birthday Stress

I’m not one to stress about getting older. In fact, most of the time I welcome it. I’m one of the rare ones who looks forward to turning 30. My whole life I have looked much younger than my age, and I can’t wait to see the look on faces of people who say, “You’re 30?!” I will respond with, “Why yes, I am a capable and mature 30 year old. Now take me seriously.”

But this year, I’m dreading my birthday. When I turned 20, I put a timeline on my future. Who does that? Apparently I do. The year I turned 28 would be a defining time in my life. I would be settled down; I would be climbing the corporate ladder; I would take steps necessary to become a mom. I would be a grown-up.

I turn 28 next week. A week from today. That number is glaring me in the face. I’ve been a monster to be around. Ask Todd. I feel overwhelmed, pressured, and not at all where I thought I would be at 28. I know that Todd and I have accomplished so much before this milestone year (buying our first house, getting grown-up jobs, etc.) But lately I’ve been questioning everything. Do I love my job? Is this what I want to do for 10 more years? 5 years? 6 more months? I don’t know. Am I ready to be a mom? I think so, but I’m terrified. It may take immaculate conception at this point. This birthday really snuck up on me and it feels like it’s me against my age.

I know it’s unhealthy to put timelines on my life – I know God’s timing is not my own (thankfully!) and that everything will fall into place when it’s supposed to. I do feel a natural shift in my desires and goals and I know God will carry me through. I just wish as a teenager I would have put 29, 30 or 31 as my defining year. But in the end, the things I fear are inevitable. I am going to get older. My priorities are going to change. And I’m going to be okay.

With age comes wisdom, right?

September 14, 2010

Folly Beach

As I type, I'm sitting on a covered deck of the beach house that Todd and I are calling home until Saturday. The weather is perfect - not a cloud in the sky. At least a dozen dolphins just swam by in front of us.  I'm surrounded by the most amazing women, whom I'm blessed to call my best friends. All is quiet except for the sounds of crashing waves, Sarah Bareilles (and from inside we hear our husbands laughing as they watch Wedding Crashers). To call this a dream vacation really doesn't do it justice.

Below is a snapshot of our time so far in beautiful Charleston, South Carolina:
























 

































 









  



   
 
  









We're having an incredible time - and we have 3 days left!

Be back soon.

September 7, 2010

Labor Day Lessons

Todd and I had an amazing time in Missouri last weekend. I don't know if there is a better time to visit the Ozarks than when the weather starts to get cool. Life just slows down a little bit. While we always enjoy our trips home to see family, this time seemed especially special. 

A few things I learned this Labor Day:

1. I've lost my game. 
    I used to be somewhat of a putt-putt pro. Not anymore. I came in a measly 5th place!





2. I will never get tired of this view.
    Todd's parents are moving to the country. I can't wait to wake up to this!




3. Great meals don't always need a recipe. 
    Todd's mom and I threw this together in about 10 minutes. 
    All you need is pasta, shrimp, olive oil, artichokes, garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.




4. Riding a Harley isn't so bad. 




5. I want one. Just like her. 


























How was your weekend?