Hello Twenty-Four!

As of Wednesday, November 1, at 5:55 am, I am officially twenty-four! Cheers!

I have always been a big fan of birthdays - both of my own and of the one's I love - as I feel they truly are a celebration of life and something that should indeed be celebrated! In my opinion, another trip around the sun filled with new experiences, life lessons, memories, and personal growth are all things that deserve recognition and at the very least a glass of champagne!

As birthday's role around, I always like to look back and reflect on what the year has given me and what I have learned in the past three hundred and sixty five days. Twenty-three, not unlike other years, has taught me many things and simply put has been a year of transition. As I continue to navigate my twenties, I am constantly reminded just how much they matter in preparing us for the road ahead. Each year has proven to have it's own set of challenges, lessons, and experiences that I truly believe lead us closer to having it all figured out (however, whether we ever have it all figured out is most definitely up for debate).

Twenty-three, you have been no different. You too have served as a big year of learning and have taught me quite a bit about the power of perseverance and patience. I am more sure of who I am and what I want out of this life, and although that has been years in the making, I give credit to this past year as well.

I am more comfortable waiting for the right situation to come around, than settling on the wrong one. I can thank my experience as a new nurse for that one. I was very sure of what I wanted out of my career and the kind of nurse I was going to be, and I refused to settle for anything less that that, even if it meant waiting, waiting, and more waiting. Be patient, keep pushing for what you want, and refuse to settle. That goes for anything in life - jobs, relationships, anything. Be patient, the wait will be worth it. I promise.

That last line leads me very nicely into another lesson twenty three has brought me. A year ago, if you had asked me what I wanted out of the next year of my life or where I would be as I turned twenty-four, I would have told you without a second to pause. However, a year later I can tell you from experience that where I pictured myself at this point and where I actually am are two very different things. I so very clearly knew what I wanted and where I wanted to be, and although at times it is frustrating that I am not living out that plan currently, I am confident that I will get there. Again, patience and perseverance are key. I will not give up on my dream to live in the city, I'll keep pushing along but I'll be patient while I do so. Trusting the universe and the timing of your life is key - a lesson that seems to be an overarching theme of your twenties.

Of course I can't go without mentioning some of the exciting things that twenty-three has brought. I officially became a Registered Nurse and started working in a field I am so passionate about. I rekindled some very important relationships which has led to a very full heart these days. I have been blessed to be able to live at home with my entire family for what will probably be the last time. I've traveled with both friends and family - something that always sparks a light in me. I reunited and made new memories with the best travel buddies and lifelong friends.

I could keep going with all the wonderful things twenty-three has brought me, but I will end it with this. Thank you God for another year. Another year of learning, of loving, of laughing, and most importantly of living this really good life to it's fullest. Although young, twenty-four years is more than a lot of people get out of this life. I promise to make it a good one.

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xo. G