I’m told the “Dirty Thirties” are the new Twenties.

Or maybe I’ve been watching too much “Sex And The City.”  I guess either way, turning 30 can be looked at as a good thing!

And I can’t complain. I’ve actually got it pretty good.  I think maybe my fear of turning 30 is that I’m not quite as far along as I hoped. But on the other hand, that may just be a Florida thing. After all, I am a Florida girl.  Back there… it was unheard of if you didn’t go to college right after you graduated high school… and then settle into a career.  Marriage and family are next, normally in that order. I can even say majority of my friends, especially from high school, are married, with kids, have the career, house… you know, a white picket fence kind of deal. Here… I know very few people like that. So maybe I’m too hard on myself.  I wanted a change, a big one, which is why I walked away from a career and moved 3,000 miles away. And I know I got lucky coming here.

Like I said, I’ve got it pretty good. I may be new at this job, but I have a future in it.  I may not be married, but I’m committed and moving forward to a future with my boyfriend. I may not have kids, but I have lots of pets!  I love my job, both of them, I have an amazing man, a great home, a fun little car, wonderful family and friends, two cats, a dog, and now… a new teeny tiny puppy! Yes, I just added a puppy to my clan. My boyfriend came home a day ago with his hands behind his back and I knew something was up.  I could tell by the look on his face. As I stood to say hello, he revealed this little bundle of golden fur, and said, “Say Happy Birthday, Mama!” I was beyond shocked. It was the last thing I expected, considering we have said we’re waiting before we get more animals. Waiting… until we have a bigger backyard! But this little guy, who I have yet to name, is pretty cute. Loveable too. 

So I can’t complain. My “Dirty Thirties” are starting with a puppy… and a weekend away with my boyfriend… with lots of happy memories behind me… and many wonderful ones to come.

By the way, we're thinking Barley.... for the little guy's name!