Shalyse is 30 Something? Huh?!

I'm thinking back to 31.  I'd recently divorced from a 12 year marriage.  And for the first time in my life, I was making my own decisions without having to consult absolutely anyone... no parents, no husband.  Turning 30 wasn't such a big deal for me.  I was having the best times of my life, then.  I was feeling like an independent person and not just a mom or a wife.  I was finally doing what I wanted to do.  Sounds selfish, I know.  But that's who I was at 30-something.  Because at 17, I was having babies, wondering how/when I was going to get a college education, and worrying about bills.

Shalyse turned 31 on Friday.  When I thought about her turning 30 last year, it was difficult for me.  As a matter of fact, she recently told me she didn't get a chance to feel badly about it herself because I was having such a hard time with it.  But SNAP!!!! she was invading my 30-something space.

Realism really sets in when your daughter turns 30.  She's catching up to my age....well at least the age that I've always had in my mind for myself....30-something.

At 30, Shalyse and I were in such different times of our lives.  Fortunately for Shalyse, she's had the opportunity to experience every independent experience she's wanted before 31....leaving plenty of time for the responsibilities of marriage/partnership and parenthood for afterwards.

Shalyse has been dealt some pretty difficult cards in her life but then again, she's been a LUCKY girl too. Shalyse has had to deal with life-threatening situations at a very young age which I'm sure has given her perspective, knowing it could all end at any time - which is so different for those of us who take it for granted that life is forever.

She's been able to expereience so many things that other people could only wish for.  I think Shalyse has been living life to it's fullest and hopefully appreciating every little bit of it.  I know I've appreciated the 31 years I've experienced with her.  Love you, Shalyse!!!!!!

Before I turned 40, I used to think that 40 was soooo far away.  And I used to think that when I approached 40,  I'd have the relief of not having to worry about weight, fashion, current style, hair, etc, anymore.  But when I turned 40, nothing changed.  I was still beginning a diet every Monday, still regularly changing my hair color, still shopping for sequins, faux-this or that, halters, etc etc.

So....enjoy every birthday from here on out, Shalyse....you'll be approaching "beyond 30", shortly.  Mark my words, it's not that far away.

Happy Birthday Shalyse!