So this is 35...

So, this is 35. I made it you guys. I'm official. Not officially "old" but just simply. Official. You know when you talk about someone that did something outrageous and people say, "how old were they?!" And you say, "Not that young,they were like 35!" You know, because by 35, you should not being doing certain things. You are finally at an age of legitimacy. An age that deserves some respect. You've been in your career for about 10 years now. You know, you are legit.

I don't think of turning 35 as a bad thing. Actually, I think aging is beautiful. It's a gift really. A gift that so many of us never receive. Sure there are some more lines on my face and my muffin top is a bit fluffier than I like it. But, you guys... I'm one of the lucky ones.

I've lost two friends this year. One was 31 and the other 36. Both to cancer. Their passing has left an endless wake of of sadness, loss, and heartbreak. More than ever before, I'm reminded that every moment I'm here, every day I live, and every birthday I get to celebrate is a gift. It's a treasure.

This year, I want to be present. I don't want to waste energy on the trivial things in life that don't matter. I want to be healthy, not skinny. I want to laugh more and spend more time with the people that mean the world to me. I want to soak up my precious family and every single moment that I have with them. I want to show others grace and forgive a thousand plus one times.

 It's time to live. The time is now. It's more important with every passing day. Living. Truly living. Is an urgent need. Find your happiness. Get out there and find it. You heard me. Don't give it away to anyone else to "handle" for you. There is not a soul out there that can take ownership over your happiness except you. Take charge of your life. Find it. Embrace it.

35 is my lucky year you guys. I fully expect big things. But more than that, I just feel lucky. To be here and do this.