The Thirties

33.
I've spent my lifetime being "young". Then all of a sudden, you aren't any longer. Yet, you're not old. Where is the fine line that projects you into the "other" category? We aren't middle age. We aren't young ins anymore. What is 33?

I feel like I have a bucket of lessons to pull from, yet I don't know everything like my 20 something self did. I know that the forces of nature (God, Higher Purpose, whatever you believe) do this on purpose. A 23 year old body with a 33 year old brain would be quite dangerous!

The things you learn over a decade, I've decided, are definitely worth the journey!

And for just a day, could I have my old body back? You know, the one I thought was "fat"? I remember sucking in my stomach on my wedding day in a dress that was a size 2. Sickening. I try to remember now that in 10 more years, I'll wish I looked like this.

Contrary to most, it's a pleasure for me to turn 34 in July. No one knows how much time we have left, but what we do know, is what we've learned thus far. My lessons get more rich and fulfilling each day. My kids are teaching me more about myself than even my wise Grandparents could.

Why is it that you cannot sit a 20 year old down and convey the things that are so wise and would eliminate a lot of angst? I guess it takes the journey to give you ears? Here are a few things I would tell my girls if they could hear me:

Sometimes, I'm not right and it's o.k., people don't love me any less.

Cherish and hold on to your best friends - the time when you really need them probably hasn't happened yet.

Don't pass judgement, it's karma's best and most powerful Ali.

The drama is your reaction. Just stop reacting. It will go away.

Contrary to what you've been taught, thinking is not the way.

Just erase the word NEVER from your dictionary.

Take extra good care of your teeth today, you'll thank yourself later.

Every now and then, pick up the book "The Power of Now" and if you understand what you read, finish it.

Just Don't Do It. Saying no is the most powerful word in the dictionary!

So, today I'll go forth on my journey with my 33 year old wisdom and look forward to the load that I'll pile on before 43. I'll try to remember to cherish the moments. I'll also try to remember that saving my children from the moments robs them of the journey!

Oh, and one more thing, next time a 43 year old tries to tell me something, I'll try to remember to listen.

live, laugh, love, TODAY.