J’ai trente-huit ans.

I believe that with every birthday, we should all take a mo’ and list all of the significant things that have happened to us (or within us) since the last birthday. If we’re not learning, growing and gaining some wisdom from our experiences, then, really, why are we bothering?



In my 38th year:

I became stronger – physically, emotionally and mentally.

I missed my dad an awful lot.
I still cry from time-to-time (like right now), but I think I’ve done a pretty good job of holding it together. Or, maybe I haven’t really started dealing with his loss. I think this will require further exploration, but in the meantime, I will keep watching for Blue Jays.

I found a job that I love.
I spend my days surrounded by people that are kind and creative and clever, and every Monday morning, I can’t wait to see them all again. Well, most of them.

I climbed a mountain.
I took a trip to Vancouver in July to surprise the mascot and figured that since I was there and had an afternoon to kill, I might as well do the Grouse Grind. To make sure that I didn’t throw in the towel halfway up, I sent the Mascot and my mother up in the tram and told them I’d meet them at the top. An hour and change later, I popped out at the top of the trail and had something to cross off my bucket list.

I loved, almost lost, and loved some more.

I had the privilege of spending another year with the mascot, who suddenly became this confident, articulate, witty, TALL kid right before my eyes. I am so proud of him (and I can’t help but take a tiny bit of credit for his coolness. I mean, someone has to, right?)

I did a 30-day photo challenge that definitely lived up to its name. Sunsets on demand? Yeah, right.

I watched the election AND the Oscars in their entirety for the first time in my life. I may have things confused, but I think James Franco is our new Prime Minister.

I had my hair cut twice and my nails done once.
I definitely need to up the princess-factor next year.

I came to terms with turning 39.
Almost.