23

Swell romper

A friend recently told me how shocked she was to find out I was only turning 23 now. Even though she's only a few months older, she was still amazed that for someone who is only 23, I've accomplished a lot already. I took in her words wholeheartedly, completely flattered by the full compliment, and seriously thought about what she meant. It never occurred to me how much I've achieved until I thought about everything that's happened within this past year. I graduated college and got a my first job, then received a full-time offer in NY (and love it), entirely revamped my blog with new projects and collaborations ahead, moved out of my house to a nice apartment, improved significantly in dance, and maintained, rekindled, and created lasting friendships. I've managed to find a meditated balance amongst my personal, work, and social lives while feeling evidently fulfilled and satisfied. And isn't that what we all look forward to when we were young? We imagine the day life is finally ours to control and the future seems conquerable and hopeful.

But I think my biggest accomplishment yet is that I found a constant happiness--I'm no longer fishing for reasons to be happy because I just am. I used to keep a "Happy Jar" filled with moments when I felt grateful for the life I have, but this past year made me realize I didn't need to anymore because there were simply too many blessings and opportunities each day that made me feel this way to even keep track. It is the most rewarding feeling. After 23 years, I've found the point in my life when I can truly say everything seems right and I am

happy

to be who I am, where I am.

This has been an amazing birthday, and not because I celebrated it outrageously like I usually do but I don't feel the need to because everyday has been a celebratory event for me and will continue to be.

Thank you for all the birthday wishes! I can't wait to see what the next year has in store for me! 24, look out for a whole new me.