Me at 29

“The great thing about getting older is that you don't lose all the other ages you've been.” ~ Madeleine L'Engle

[I feel the need to start this blog off on a completely unrelated note.  Eight years ago, I lost two dear friends and one of those friend's dad in two separate car accidents.  You've read before about Jeans and Rodeo Star.  And even though the years pass, these days are still hard.  So please say a little prayer for their families today.  And give a big hug to your friends, because you still can.]


When I wrote my "Me at 28" blog this time last year, I remember thinking that my next year wouldn't be able to measure up.  My 27th year had been pretty spectacular.  But life, as it often does, proved me wrong.

Because in my 28th year...

I learned to jump.  Be it off of tarzan swing platforms in a jungle, or out of my own comfort zone in life, or in by taking a chance and speaking my mind. 

I was reminded again of the importance of family.....that they are the people with whom you celebrate the good and mourn the unthinkable.

I saw Michael Phelps make history, Oklahoma State win the Fiesta Bowl, and three of my best friends get engaged.

I've learned to stand up for myself and to find causes that touch my heart and to laugh when things don't go according to plan.

I chest bumped a groomsman at a wedding.

I've baptized a baby and prayed in a Grotto and told inappropriate jokes during a Eulogy.

There's been screaming at football games and dancing in saloons.

I laughed until I snorted countless times and smiled for lots of wedding photos.

My heart has skipped beats, I've held my breath, and my debit card left $70 at the M&M Store.

I flew to Oklahoma when a shiny ring was bought, flew to El Paso when a four wheeler was wrecked, and flew to Chicago to see a river turn green.

I rushed the field.  Twice.  I ran through mud and for orphans and for chocolate and through colored powder and for memories of those lost.

I've embraced the quote, "Let no one ever again say that we dreamed too small."

In my 28th year, I became the person I am now.  I became me at 29, and I think that person is better than me at 28.  And although I still have the pang of regret that my 28th year is ending, and the slight dread that the next one may not measure up, I leave with the sincere hope that maybe, just maybe, the 29th will be better yet.