25 Years

Tomorrow I turn twenty-six. 

Sounds so old, mature...closer to thirty than twenty.

Yikes.

{A year ago on my 25th Birthday.}

And I'm kissing goodbye to 25 in my gym clothes, on my couch in my tiny {perfect} little apartment in Newport, drinking a glass {or two} of Two Buck Chuck and watching black and white Christmas movies on the Hallmark Channel. If I'm lucky, I'll stay awake past nine, which has been impossible for me so far this week.

Hell yes. Let's get this party started.

I've been reflecting on the fast approaching age of twenty-six for the last few months. These reflections have brought moments of deep thought, laughter, and also panic that my youth is dwindling away. These thoughts are followed by me sternly reassuring myself that I still have a lot of young life to live.

Exactly.

Twenty five has been one of my favorite years. It was the year I really came into my own and felt like a real adult. This is the year I let go of a lot of the hurt and emotions I carried with me all through year 24. I grew up in a lot of ways, and I enjoyed life - something that can sometimes be a lot harder than it sounds. This year has been utterly wonderful. That's not to say there haven't been days of stress and frustration, but I feel myself growing for uncomfortable circumstances and embracing the bad because I've learned that's where a lot of the good in life begins. Most crappy situations in the last few years have led me to almost miraculous opportunities and blessings.

I also know that twenty-six will bring a new host of opportunities. I know that in July I will be moving somewhere either across the country {or possibly an ocean}. I know that I have unfailing and devoted support from my dearest family and friends. I can always sit down at the end of a crazy day with a smile and thoughts of gratitude for this life I've been given.

What more does a girl need?

Nothing.

So here's to 25. One of the best yet.

26, I have very high hopes for you.

xoxo