Friends, I am thirty freaking five!!! How did that even happen? I swear my thirties have been disappearing at warp speed and while I’m a little anxious at entering the last half of my thirties, I am energized with all the possibilities that lay ahead of me. 

As I celebrate my 35th birthday, I can’t help but reflect on the lessons I’ve learned throughout my life so far. From the ups and downs of relationships to navigating career paths, I’ve gained a wealth of knowledge that I want to share with you. So, grab a cup of coffee (or a glass of wine) and join me as I reveal 35 life lessons that have helped me become the fierce and fabulous woman I am today.

1. The days are often long but the years truly are so very short.
2. You’ll never regret hugging or kissing your child, even if they act like they hate it – I promise you they don’t.
3. Love hard in all of your relationships. The price you pay in pain/grief – will always be worth it.
4. A smile can change someone’s day, a kind word can change someone’s whole life.
5. Always look for rainbows, but also be willing to stand in the storm.
6. The best way to communicate is to listen.
7. Your body is a wonderland – nourish it, move it but above all – love it.
8. Learn how to communicate about your emotions, effectively. Instead of saying “you made me feel…” say “When you say (blank) I feel like you aren’t truly hearing me. How can I explain it better so we both understand what I’m saying?” or things like “I have this story in my head that you mean to hurt me when you said (blank). It’s probably just something I’m perseverating on but can you help clear up what you meant?”
9. Wait 24 hours before purchasing something that isn’t necessary for your survival. 9/10 times you won’t still want it the next day.
10. Create a relationship with your money. Date it, love it, enjoy it, and always treat it well. 
11. Always speak up for what you need but give grace if you don’t get it right away. 
12. The most important relationship in your life will be with the person staring back at you in the mirror. Don’t neglect it.
13. Addictions come in many forms. Always be self evaluating what you are consuming through all of your senses.
14. Don’t regret. Life is merely full of lessons. Seek out the lesson and you won’t have regret.
15. There is no object that will replace the joy or the experience of seeing or experiencing another part of the world/country.
16. Put your phone down, life is happening all around you.
17. Take the damn picture, your kids and family will thank you once you’re gone.
18. Wear the swimsuit, put on the shorts and take up space.
19. When someone asks you “why?” always answer with “why not?”
20. Your dreams don’t have to make any sense to anyone but you.
21. Share what’s on your heart. You never know who it will touch.
22. You’re not promised tomorrow, so stop wasting today.
23. Prioritize sleep.
24. Ask for help.
25. Cold showers will change your life, in a good way.
26. Death is inevitable, don’t fear it.
27. Fear of failure is a lie. Once you realize that, you can do anything.
28. Be kind to everyone, even those who don’t deserve it – but especially be kind to yourself.
29. Embrace your uniqueness. I promise that’s your ticket to happiness.
30. Forgive – even when they don’t deserve it.
31. Take a probiotic.
32. Drink lots of water.
33. Eat your veggies.
34. Walk barefoot in nature.
35. Never, ever, forget the beautiful miracle that you are. 

Congrats, you made it to the end! See, getting older isn’t all that bad. Take these lessons and use them as your armor as you continue to conquer life, one day at a time. And remember, life is a journey, not a destination – so enjoy the ride and make the most of every moment. Cheers!