It's my party and I'll cry if I want to...but I'm not going to.

So, it's that time of year again and I guess that means I need to reflect. I've turned 32 and I remember when that sounded so old. When you're there, it doesn't feel that old. I mean, I certainly don't feel old, by any means.

My first instinct was to be a bit depressing, but instead, I'm making a list of things for which I am happy. A friend of mine and I keep a list of all the reasons we are friends and it's very uplifting. This is a similar tribute to my life and the people around me :)

1. I am a healthy young woman.
2. I have a fulfilling job in a shitty economy.
3. I completed my education when I was young and it has served me well.
4. My family is supportive and loving and surrounds me with love (when I allow them to!)
5. I have 2 wonderful nephews who brighten every day and a niece on the way!
6. My younger sister lives 3 blocks away and checks in on me all the time.
7. I live with one of the kindest, most open-minded people I have ever met and I have the chance for that to rub off on me.
8. I have a diverse and wonderful group of friends that enhance my life in every way possible.
9. Blondes have more fun.
10. The Steelers won the Super Bowl!
11. Julian sleeps next to me every night, and despite his bad breath, I like it.
12. I can't count the number of birthday wishes I have received today and the day isn't over yet.
13. I have been exposed to some of the bravest and most inspirational women in my lifetime and have had the pleasure to call many of them "friend."
14. I have all my teeth :D
15. The sun is shining today in my honor.
16. I have a roof over my head and enough food to eat every day.
17. I am free to express myself and make my own decisions.
18. I work in an environment that encourages discovery and personal growth.
19. My mom and dad are still married and present an example of balance in life.
20. I'm touched by every new person I meet and the things that they are able to teach me.
21. HUGS!
22. I am learning something new everyday about who I am and the choices I've made.
23. I have many people I can call on if I need something and many of them I don't even have to ask, they just offer.
24. I still have many, many, many years ahead of me and I'm learning that the important part is the journey, not the destination.

This list isn't inclusive, but just a fun exercise in putting life into perspective on my birthday. You can dread getting on the roller coaster or sit in the back with your arms in the air screaming the whole way. And all I have to say is:

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!