Mid-Thirtysomething

This weekend I celebrated my 34th birthday with friends and family. I’ve been pretty contemplative these last few days as I reflect on the past year and what I hope for in the next 12 months to come.

Ah, life…the twists and turns, the doors that shut and the windows that open. Whoever said life was an adventure wasn’t kidding. This has been a defining year for me as I grew into my new role as a single, working parent with an amazing, sweet, intelligent toddler.

Rather than look back though, I’m looking forward. At press time, I’m newly single but appreciative for the fond memories and experience of my first real relationship post-divorce. The trek towards 35 will start with much of my life as a clean slate.

I’ve spent the past few days celebrating the big three four by catching up with friends and enjoying happy times with my family. I am so grateful for the all birthday cards and would like to give special thanks to my little, Holly, and my grandmaman for especially touching cards that just made my day.

On Friday night, my friend Dawn took me out to a great new restaurant in Reno, SoDo, and we literally closed out the back room of the restaurant.

Saturday was spent with another dear friend, Amy, who indulged my desire for Olive Garden’s addictive salad dressing. The rest of our night included a nice bottle of wine while catching up after a busy few months for both of us.

Today is the end of the birthday trifecta. Brayden and I made our way to my parents’ house for a full day of family time. It started off with my first birthday request—my mom’s apple pancakes. They are to die for. I only get them once a year, and while it’s true I could just make them myself, we all know everything tastes better when mom makes it. Brayden graciously offered to help me blow out my candle.

After breakfast, Brayden gave me a lovely bouquet and card which made me get all teary-eyed. I just love being a mom. There are no words.

It was a beautiful day out, and we played outside and at the park. The whole day was just lovely.

After dinner, it was officially cake time. I went with a chocolate cake with chocolate fudge frosting (why not?) freshly baked the day before.

Have you ever read the post Little Rituals? If not, it’s worth the two-minute detour to follow the link. Brayden loves to sing “Happy Birthday”, and his little voice is just about the sweetest thing ever. I wish every day could be my birthday just to hear him sing to me and get so excited to blow out the candle.

I am lucky to have such great friends and family in my life, and I am so appreciative for all of you. The support is more than I could ask for. It may be happy birthday to me but all my thanks are to you.