How the eff was this 28 years ago, and more importantly, where is that Care Bear now?

Today I turn 32.

For someone who’s been apprehensive and even struggled with birthdays before, I’m totally ok with this one. (Talk to me when I’m 35, though.)

All of you 30-somethings who commented two years ago that your thirties were far better than your twenties, well, you’re right.

Seven years ago, when I turned 25 in D.C., I had no idea who I was and what I was doing with my life. That was not a good birthday at all, and I moved to NYC several months later, and began to finally take charge of my own life.

I started this blog, which honestly changed my life. 

I joined the NYJL, took on a leadership role which challenge and fulfilled me, completed my term and then took a step back afterwards because it was right for me.

I lost 50 pounds, and yeah, I look a little better than I used to, but I also am taking better care of my health, both physically and mentally. I love therapy and yoga. (If that statement doesn’t scream thirty-something, I don’t know what does.)

I have challenged myself physically in ways I never thought possible: I’ve completed a handful of triathlons (including swimming in the Hudson, although maybe that’s not one of my better decisions?), close to 30 half-marathons (my favorite distance! 25-year-old Theodora is definitely laughing), four marathons, including finally breaking four hours and I even finally embraced strength training.

I survived a number of crappy jobs, but never stopped believing that the right one for me was out there, and I found it.

I realized the hard way who weren’t my friends, and who were my true people.

I’ve learned how to let criticism from those who don’t matter roll off my back, and take constructive criticism from those who speak up because they truly care.

I’m far from perfect, and I’m far from having life figured out (LOLLLL), but I know what’s not right for me and how to take steps to change it.

I’m looking forward to this year, and the rest of my 30s and all that they bring, and I’m celebrating looking forward to what may come, rather than obsessing over what I don’t have. 

I started this post before yoga this morning, and I can’t think of a better way to have started my birthday, setting my intentions for today and for the rest of this year.

It’s going to be a good one.