Tomorrow is my birthday! But not just any birthday, my 30th birthday. 🤩

I am still trying to get my head around it but on the eve of my 30th birthday and as I say goodbye to my 20s, I’d like to reflect on some important things I’ve learned.

So without further adieu and in no particular order, here are 30 things I’ve learned in 30 years.

Always save room for dessert.
Don’t play games with people. Be honest and earnest.
Hand written notes, letters, and cards are incredibly meaningful and you should write them often.
You don’t have to explain yourself to strangers on the internet nor do you have to prove anything to them.
No one has the right to your time, your body, your energy, or your skills.
Replace your toothbrush every three months and floss every day.
Advocate for yourself/your children to doctors. You know your body and your children better than anyone. Trust your gut.
At minimum, have a signature meal you can whip up for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Always keep a special beverage on hand for celebrations.
Carry a reusable water bottle around with you.
Do not gossip.
Assume the best intentions in people.
Look at people in the eye when they are speaking and listen and reflect before you respond.
Be patient and kind to people who serve you.
Just because you don’t care for a certain book, movie, or artist, it does not make it stupid. Everyone can have their own preference and don’t judge their enjoyment.
Don’t be racist, sexist, ageist, ableist.
Also, don’t tell people how they should feel about things particular to their situation. Shut up and listen and be an ally.
Eat that whole fat, whole food, real meal.
Babies are blessings and kids should be in public spaces.
It’s okay to have different kinds of friendships with people.
Respect people with food allergies and do not liken it to “preferences”.
Strive for health not a particular weight.
Say please and thank you always and every day.
Spend time in prayer every day.
Repent and submit to the Pope.
Keep learning and reading. There is always something new to learn and room to grow in knowledge and wisdom.
Learn everyday basic life skills like doing the dishes, washing your own clothes, filing taxes, and sewing a button. But also be okay with enlisting help when you need to.
Be okay with sitting in silence and being alone with yourself. Embrace those quiet moments.
Never force your children to show physical or emotional affection.
Quality over quantity. This applies to food, friends, and fun.