Farewell, 25...

I enjoy birthday’s… usually other people’s better than my own. Contrary to popular belief, I really don’t like being the center of attention and quite frankly sometimes don’t know how to deal with something being “about me.” Awkward, I know. However, I have some of the best friends and family IN THE WORLD that have made me feel so very special each year that I get older.

As I pass the “quarter” stage of life, and move on to 26, I am thankful for 25 and the good and bad that came with it…

In year 25, I started teaching Zumba. For those of you who do know me well, or stalk my Facebook page, may say I’m obsessed with it. It’s possible. I like to think that a more constructive word for my love and enjoyment for teaching these classes is “passionate.” As crazy as you may think I am about Zumba, it has been such a blessing in my life this year. Teaching these classes has pushed me wayyyy out of my comfort zone, allowed me to network and build friendships with many new people, make some extra money, get more involved in the community I work in, as well as the one I live in, have fun, believe in myself more and become a healthier me.

25 saw both challenges and rewards in my job. I work with some great people and great kids. I learned more about my “supervision style,” more about how I handle pressure, and through it all, hope I made a difference in the community.

25 marked the 20th year of me being in school…. And thankfully, the LAST!!! I finished my Master’s degree with God’s help, and a lot of love and support from many of you reading this!

In year 25, I purchased a new vehicle, which I love, love, love. Those of you who know me well know that I do spend a lot of time in a vehicle, thus I am very thankful to have the means to drive something I feel safe in and that has plenty of room!! (God Bless the Camaro.)

25 saw the Grand Canyon for the first time and went to a World Series baseball game. 25 had fun days at Keeneland, UK basketball games, camping trips, shopping trips, baseball games and concerts. 25 caught a few more bouquets and celebrated with friends as their families grew. 25 started this blog and actually posted stuff on it for practically a month!

25 saw people come in and out of my life, a lot of tough decisions, a lot of tears, a lot of laughs, love, heartbreak, truth, loss, new friends, old friends, prayers and blessings. Even though 25 was a good year and yet hard year, I am thankful for it.

I’m not really a “new year resolution” kind of person (no matter when one declares the “new year”) but I do hope that in year 26, I can laugh more, and love on people more. Show God’s love more. Try not to care what others think and be more comfortable in my own skin. Take a few more chances. Take a few more trips. Learn a new instrument or take up a new hobby. Keep learning (just not for another degree!)... And hopefully be blessed to write about 26 this time next year!

Thanks for the birthday wishes!! Love you all!