the one where I turn 30...

If you know me, you are aware that I have a serious addiction to the television show, "Friends." I watch it way too often and quote it even more frequently. It is a part of who I am.

On my birthday, I usually watch the episode where they "all turn 30" because it is hilarious. I love that Joey cries, Ross does something impulsive and that Monica is drunk in front of her parents. I did not do any of these things, but I think I will follow the path of Pheobe. Phoebe had a list of the things she wanted to accomplish by her birthday...I think I will post a list of the things I have accomplished/learned in my 20s.

*I graduated from college with Honors. barely. (I do not use this degree, but, I did find myself in college)
*I survived living with, feeding and loving 6-8 teenage boys for a year and a half. (as their houseparent)
*I lost 85 pounds using diet and exercise. Unfortunately, I gave up these standbys and will be working to get rid of some of the weight for a second time.
*I started a new career, worked my way up for 4.5 years, and realized what it feels like when what you think will be your long term plan is no longer an option.
*In said career, I realized an amazing love for coffee, met some of the people who I love the most and was able to move across the country seamlessly, job-wise.
*I developed a love for Portland when I once thought I would never love anywhere not located in the South.
*I was dealt loss in ways I never thought possible and had to deal with it from 2,700 miles away. Twice.
*I realized that asking for help is more than a "star" skill. It is a way of life.
*I found/continue to find healing in a group of people who were strangers, through my friends who were persistent, through my family that was shattered and from a Heavenly Father who I question a lot.
*I learned that your family expands in ways that are not always traditional or expected, but that being genetically or legally linked is not a prerequisite for being added.

I have had a great birthday and am looking forward to the continued celebration. It is not nearly as scary as I had feared and I am excited that I get to start a whole new list.