Treinta y Uno!

"When I started counting my blessings, my whole life turned around" - Woody Nelson.

I saw that quote today from Danielle LaPorte. That really resonated with me. Why do we find ourselves looking so far into the future of all the things we have not accomplished yet? Things to cross of the list, things to do before we can move onto the fun stuff. I think it's good to stop for a second, and realize how far we've come as well.

What better time to do that than after my 31st birthday?! I feel like I've been focusing on career and life goals so much, I've forgotten to do like Woody said. Though I won't be taking any of his herbal remedies, I'm a good girl! Instead, I partake in cupcakes with lots of frosting and sprinkles and a glass of milk. I made my own. Sometimes, you have to create your own happiness.

So yes, I've turned 31. Treinta y uno. I wanted to take a few minutes and think of all the highlights from my last year. It's been a good one Maybe one of the best yet! That's good, since the last few were kind of tough, but they make you stronger and make you realize what is important. For me, that is my loved ones. And pursuing your dreams now, not later. (This is unapologetically all about me today, if you couldn't tell).

Accomplishments and Highlights for my thirtieth year:

1. Carved and created my first linoleum print.

2. Finished my damn Pi-Shawl!

3. Watched my best friend marry the love of her life, with the best seat in the house.

4. Took my cousin Cara to Key West after promising a trip for seven years. The Reggae Catamaran counts as our open water portion.

5. Was fortunate to create illustrations for a Manos del Uruguay catalog.

6. First loaf of bread that required kneading!

7. Won a contest for Heather Ross' Weekend Sewing book.

8. Dyed Easter eggs with my sweetie. And was asked to marry said sweetie!

9. Becoming more involved in interior design and architecture happenings in Philadelphia.

10. Biked to work consistently for a whole year (and counting).

11. Studied madly and become a LEED AP.

12. After getting shot down to volunteer with 2 organizations due to lack of need on their part, and a skill set that didn't match up, I finally found someone who I can help!

13. Went out of my comfort zone and took Holly Becker's online course.

14. Cooked Beef Bourguignon with Olivia.

15. Finally updated my blog header!

16. Bought a real life, grown up, not free from a summer home I lived in 10 years ago, bed!

I'm feeling pretty proud of myself. Life is a journey. But don't forget, you can't do everything on your own. Sometimes you need to ask for help. Which is why Mike and Zach decorated these cupcakes for my birthday, and got creative with the remaining sugar letters.

I'm looking forward to getting acquainted with you, Mr. Treinta y Uno.