Here’s to my thirties!

30! What is it about social convention that tells us turning 30 is a big deal? And not big deal in a good way more of a, “well you’re kind of old and all your youth and beauty are behind you, basically in a way your life is ending” kind of way. Well screw that. Almost two months in to my thirties and all I feel is a lot of excitement taking on a new decade with the knowledge and experience I gained from the previous.

My 20s were spent discovering who I am and want to become. Making mistakes. Taking a few risks. Finding joy and also disappointment. I’m excited that with that self-awareness I can boldly step into my 30s with my priorities and dreams in check running not walking towards my dreams.

I didn’t magically discard all my insecurities when the clock struck midnight announcing my 30s have arrived. But I did make a vow to recognize those fears and self-doubt and relish in them. Take the risks and accept the failures. May I be so lucky to fail in life and fail often.—for without the downs we can’t appreciate the ups. So I choose to accept them, breathe them in, and keep moving forward.

So no matter what birthday you’re approaching…take it in. Move forward proud of where you’ve been and where you’re going. Even if your past is less than exciting or your future seems slowly dwindling…The world is yours to shape. I choose my 30s to be the decade to drown myself in love and laughter. To be bold and empower myself and others. To drink the champagne and run the extra miles. To fall on my face and be proud that at least I stopped falling. So here’s to my thirties. Cheers to you. Cheers to me. Just Cheers.

Also an extra thanks to the super talented Indium Boudoir for taking these shots of me on my 30th birthday!