35 and lovin’ every minute ⇒

It's my 35th birthday today. I've always liked my birthday. As a child it was my one day to feel extra special in a family with 4 children all vying for the attention of our parents and as an adult it has been the time that I re-evaluate myself and figure out what changes I will make to grow as a person. It is my day. National Christine Day.

A few friends I know have dreaded their 35th birthday. I'm feeling pretty good about it. I have everything I expected to have by this age: a happy marriage, a home that I own with my wonderful husband (well, I guess we share ownership with First National Bank), two beautiful children. I have a close relationship with my sisters, parents and in-laws and I have many good friends. How could I feel anything but great about this place in my life? I swear it just doesn't get any better than this (although I say that every year and every year just keeps getting better).

So what changes will I make this year? Well, it's actually an on-going project to be more present in the moment and be happy with what I have. I have always strived for more (more money, more responsibility at work, etc.) but it gets so tiring. We are down to one income and there will be many sacrifices over the next couple of years but I am glad to do it because I am the lucky one who gets to spend every day with my girls. Besides, for a while now I have wanted a new career and I am working towards that goal while I am staying home. I just completed my fitness instructor's course and next week I will be taking the written exam and getting evaluated as a group instructor so in about two weeks I'll be certified. I am already teaching a bootcamp and starting a mama's with toddlers bootcamp for some friends.

I also want to extend a happy birthday to three fellow March 31sters: Greg Fox, Jen Carley, and Silas Leske