Turning 37

photo credit:  Nichole, from Little Brown Pen

...in a few days.  I remember 27 being a pretty stellar year - my then-boyfriend/now-husband had moved to Boston to live with me, we got engaged, planned our wedding, took trips, and really enjoyed life.  I have a feeling 37 is going to be that kind of year.  The boys are exiting the baby years, which are sweet but admittedly exhausting, and I'm eager to enter the next phase.  We have ambitious and exciting plans for the house.  Fun trips to take.  And I still have my Kevin beside me.  Yes, it's going to be a good one.

Actually, when I think about turning 40, I get really excited.  Is that strange?  I don't particularly like the silver streaks in my hair, or my creaking knees; but my body is still healthy and strong, and I have so much to be thankful for.  I am not held back by anything.  In three years, the boys will be 7 and 5 - what fun ages.  No more diapers or cribs or strollers.  The big house renovation should be behind us by then, so we'll be able to appreciate and enjoy adding the little details to continue making our house a home.
I'm always focusing on appreciating the stage I'm in now, but a birthday is a fine time for a little reflection.  To look back and remember, but also to look forward and anticipate.

For this year's birthday, we are headed down to North Carolina, to get a taste of real Spring (the kind with flowers and sunshine).  What should we do to celebrate the big 4-0?  Enjoying some pretty flowers and a glass of wine by the water?  Sounds good.  Let's go somewhere we've never been before!  As long as I've got my boys with me, I'm happy.

photo by:  Mikkel Vang