25 Years Ago...

I was born. It's extremely weird to think of myself at that age because I don't feel older. I always thought I'd feel 25, have my life in order, and know what I want, and even though I'm definitely more mature than I have ever been, everything hasn't set in place, and I think I'm realizing that my life won't ever feel set in stone, and I'm okay with that. When I was in high school,  I had all these (false) expectations of where I'd be when I turned 25. I thought I would have moved out of my childhood home, married, and on my way to having a baby. I can't imagine me being any of those things right now... okay, except living on my own... that'd be nice. But that's not the point. The point is, with every year that I've grown a little more, I've realized that I'm exactly where I need to be, and that all of those things will happen, when they're meant to happen. 

Last year, when I turned 24, I vowed that I would complete 25 things on my bucket list before I turned 25. 25 before 25. Well, it turns out that a year goes by quite fast. I wasn't able to accomplish everything on my list, but I accomplished what I made important, what I pushed myself to accomplish, and what I had control over. 

1. I read 1 book a month. 

2. I became certified to be a personal trainer.

3. I bought a new vehicle.

4. I went zip lining.

5. I took a spontaneous trip with Sal. 

6. I presented at a child life conference.

7. I started and finished a project life album (2007-2008). 

8. I traveled to a new state. 

9. I did a 5 minute plank. 

10. I SAVED money! 

Even though I was only able to cross off ten things on my list, they were HUGE things, things I'm proud of. Many, many more things happened during my 24th year, and I wouldn't have traded any one of those things in, even if it would have helped me cross off something else on my list. And now that I'm 25, I find myself living more and more in the moment. Time slips by so fast, and if I've learned anything in this past year, it's that life is precious, more precious than any of us realize, and it can be taken away or changed in an instant, with one decision, with one tick of the clock. 

Not only did I turn 25 this year, but Sal did as well... 22 days before me, to be exact. For his birthday, he decided, he wanted to keep it low key and simple. I took the day off to spend with him, and we spent the whole day together, doing what he wanted! We woke up early and headed off to kickboxing to get in a killer workout, and then headed to a fancy brunch afterwards, where we enjoyed plates and plates of food, as well as mimosas! There he opened his fit presents, including a C4 and Cellucor weight loss powder, and a heart rate monitor (all of which he has since become addicted to- whoops!). We ended the day in our Green Bay jerseys, cuddling up on the couch for the football game. Yes, we changed our outfits three times that day, going from sweaty messes, to a classy couple, to bums, all in a matter of hours. 

Twenty-two days later, and I had quite different plans for my birthday. Every year I try and do something spectacular, something with a bunch of friends, that usually ends up costing Sal more money than anyone else. This year, I chose to do something a little low-key, but still really fun, and something that included all of my friends and loved ones. We went out on the 21st, instead of my actual birthday on the 22nd. I took the weekend off, and made reservations for a fancy brunch with my closest friends, at the same place that Sal and I went for his birthday, because I loved it that much. The only thing that was required was ugly christmas sweaters. I didn't think it'd be such a hit, but everyone that walked through the door showed up in an ugly sweater, and it was hilarious. We sat and enjoyed plate after plate of food, and I made the waiter and waitresses keep bringing us rounds and rounds of mimosas. I honestly can't even remember how many I drank, I just remember having two in my hands at all times. They were good, you can't blame a girl for drinking on her 25th birthday, now can you? The party wasn't over after we left though, considering that it was Sunday and football was on TV, we headed to the bar, where we enjoyed more drinks (since we had already been drinking since 12, what did it matter that it wasn't 5 o'clock yet? It's 5 o'clock somewhere, they say! Half time brought on free pizza, and we were the happiest people in there, we eventually cleared the place out, and headed home. The day could not have been more perfect. I think it was one of my best birthdays ever. 

On my actual birthday, I woke up and opened my amazing gifts from my family, in bed. Once I was dressed and able to be seen in public, my brother and I headed to get the world's best breakfast sandwich - taylor ham, egg, and cheese on a bagel. We sat in the small bagel shop, talking so long that when we left we smelt like grease, which is always great to smell like, especially on your birthday. We went home, and Sal came over, and that's when we relaxed and popped in a movie. We eventually had to drag ourselves off the couch so that I could go and teach at CKO Kickboxing that night, because I was not about to take off of teaching, it was only an hour. Afterwards, we headed to Applebees for half price apps with my family, and it was such a perfect way to end the celebratory weekend. 

Even during my birthday weekend, I found lessons in life's moments, and have never felt more sure of myself. Sure, I've gained materialistic things in the past year, but more importantly I've gained more confidence, closer friends, and more love than I ever thought was possible. This year has taught me all about balance. I used to be so focused on doing it all - working out like a maniac, working to make money, trying to see all of my friends and family, and it was tiring, and I ended up burnt out and exhausted. I refocused this past year, and have been really able to balance, find my passion again, and bring it to life. Twenty-five is looking like a good year, already. 

Quality Over Quantity

Before Halloween graced us with its presence, it was my mom's birthday. We were all extremely excited because my brother would be coming home from medical school for a short fall break. We couldn't plan it any better even if we tried. He was set to come home on the day of her birthday, so my mom decided to plan a nice quiet night spent at home with some friends and family. She didn't want to spend it out at a restaurant spending tons of money and barely getting to spend quality time with anyone. Instead, she wanted to snack on chips and pretzels, sip on bottles glasses of wine, and chow down on some sicilian pizza. I don't know about you, but whenever we have sicilian pizza, it means there is a party going on! We were slightly worried about the weather, but it turned out to be the perfect fall chill for a bonfire in the backyard.

I came home from work, just as her friends and our family started to arrive, and the smile on my mom's face could not have been any wider. It got me thinking... why do we strive to have so many friends, when what really matters is quality over quantity? There didn't need to be fifty people on the porch for my mom to be happy, she just needed those who have loved her and supported her over this last year.

We blasted music, and went back and forth chatting with family inside, and outside. The night was perfect. My mom refused to open her presents until later in the night... she didn't want to interrupt the conversations that were sparking in the backyard. After stuffing our faces with chips, dip, and pizza, we brought out the cake to sing. Of course, my mom being my mom, she blew out her candles and as she choked on her words and began to get weepy, she thanked everyone for coming. She's like that... a little ball of emotion. Finally she was ready to open her gifts from me - an awesome Garmin running watch that would motivate her to get back into her morning walks, and a beautiful October birthstone Alex and Ani bracelet that sparkled in all of its rose glory. She thanked me, but no thanks were necessary; when I saw the look on her face, I knew she was thankful.

The last of us still remaining gathered inside, it had grown too cold to stay outside. As the night came to a close, I knew that what my mom had meant about the night was true. It's quality over quantity. Those that had mattered the most had showed up for her and showered her with love and celebration. It was a truly magical night, and I know that she wouldn't have had it any other way.

Happy Birthday Mom ! Here's to many, many more! 

Summer Birthdays

This summer we celebrated my brother's 22nd birthday, and his girlfriend's 21st.

Her 21st brought up feelings of sadness for how fast time has passed since my own 21st, but I was also happy that she was experiencing it herself. It's one exciting birthday, and I was glad I was able to celebrate with her, my brother, and her friends and family. We went out to a new bar and it turned out to be such a fun night. I didn't feel 3 years older than her, and yet I didn't feel as if I was 21 again. There's that saying, "you're only as old as you feel," and I can tell you that I do not feel old. Like they say, age is just a number! Cliche saying after cliche saying, but it's the truth. We danced all night, and I still woke up the next morning for work. 

A few weeks later, we celebrated my brother's 22nd birthday, but nothing too crazy. Once I got out of work, I met my family at a local pizza restaurant for drinks and pizza. We kept thinking about how fast the past year went, and how he would be leaving us for medical school in just a few short weeks. We headed home to sing to him with cupcakes my mom had made, and I may have shed a few tears, realizing this may be the last birthday that we celebrate with him at home. 

It never ceases to amaze me how fast time flies. Each day seems to tick slowly by, and then before we know it a year has gone by and we're celebrating yet another birthday.

On Turning Twenty-Four

Just writing that number makes me cringe. I may or may not have cried when I turned twenty, yes

twenty... so twenty-four was no better. Whether it was because of my brother's constant taunting that I'm so close to thirty, or just the fact that each year seems to be passing faster and faster, and I'm left wondering where the last year went, I can't be quite sure. All I know is that twenty-four doesn't feel much different than twenty-three did, and I think that all has to do with that old saying, "you're only as old as you feel." I can honestly say that I don't feel old, not in the true sense of the word old. Sure, I am probably more tired than I've ever been, but I think that comes with working a full time job, and trying to fit life into.. well, my life. The weekend of my birthday, I decided that I would do what I wanted to, without worrying about who showed up or didn't. In the past years, I always tried to make everyone else happy, but I figured now was a good a time as any to make myself happy on my birthday. I chose to go ugly sweater, drunk bowling. Yes, you read that right... we would be bowling in ugly sweaters, or in my case, a tutu, because I was the birthday girl. When I told my friends the idea, most were down to come, because bowling is not something we do anymore, and drinking during just makes it a lot more fun. Some wore ugly sweaters, Sal ended up wearing a Santa suit, and my best friend and I wore tutus.

We ended up finding a great deal on Groupon for two hours of bowling, shoes, and a pitcher of beer, for six people, and it worked out perfectly. We bowled, and ended up getting pretty competitive, or that might've been just Sal and I, because no one else was really trying or cared all that much. For them it wasn't a matter of winning, like it was for me. In the end though, everyone ended up snapping pictures, and laughing harder than we ever thought possible, ignoring the game completely, and having to ask the guy behind the desk for more time to play and finish the game.

We walked out of the bowling alley singing, not ready for the night to end, since the clock hadn't even struck midnight, announcing that my day of birth had arrived. We decided to go to Applebee's for half price apps, or in my case a delectable drink and a traditional dessert. After convincing our waiter that it was actually my birthday, he brought out my dessert with fellow coworkers at his side, and they sang their ever enthusiastic birthday song, and I kept my head high and my hands clapping, taking in every word! The night ended as quickly as it began, but really my birthday had just started. I took the day off from work, and I was ready to make the day mine.





My mom and I went for manis and pedis that morning, and I almost fell asleep in the chair while the lady massaged my feet, because let's face it, who doesn't love a pedicure with a complete foot massage. We headed home too soon after, and I relaxed until later that night when I opened my presents and headed out to dinner at a local hibachi restaurant with all those I love - my parents, brother and his girlfriend, Michelle, Sal, and one of my uncles. I had been craving it, and wanted to try a place I had never been too. It brought back the memory of my mom taking me to hibachi whenever I received straight A's on my report cards way back in the day, something I will never forget. The food was delicious, and the company was even better. Even though the seats aren't ideal for conversation, they are ideal for enjoying the atmosphere and the food. So while I smacked my head on the back of the chair while trying to catch a shrimp in my mouth, everyone had the best view in the house.

Before we headed home, my brother and Michelle decided that they wanted to make their gingerbread house, so Sal and I stopped and bought whatever was left in the store (Disclaimer: on December 22nd, there isn't much left). We ended the night putting together our gingerbread sleigh, while Kyle and Michelle put together their original gingerbread house. It was a fun way to finish off my birthday, with yet another Christmas tradition, because really what's the point of having your birthday so close to Christmas if you're not thinking about Christmas?

Here's to another year of adventures and life lessons. 

Just remember... everything's more fun in a tutu, especially on your birthday.

Twenty-Four, but Still a Kid.

Sal is twenty-two days older than me, and never lets me forget it either. This year he turned twenty-four, even though he still acts like a child. I didn't take off of work, instead we made plans to go out both nights on the weekend of his birthday, both Friday and Saturday (I know I'm turning into a party animal, watch out!). Plans were thrown together in a haste that Friday night, and before I knew it I was driving home from work, getting ready, and heading out to one of the local bars that was hosting a country night! We arrived and I was a little hesitant because there weren't many people there, but as soon as I heard the music, I was set for the night. Usually, we have to put money into a modernized jukebox in order to hear the music we like, so it was nice being able to just enjoy the atmosphere with friends.

The bar quickly filled up, and friends started arriving. Soon enough the shots were being poured, and drinks were being passed around. Knowing I had to work the next day, I chose to drive everyone. It was a good choice, as I was able to enjoy the show, so to speak. Sal didn't have any shots until the clock struck 12, which is a pretty good feat with his friends. As soon as the bartender found out it was his birthday, all hell broke loose. I couldn't help but laugh, but I took as few pictures as possible. Before I knew it, we were out on the dance floor; Sal is quite the dancer, even with a few drinks in him. Even though Sal and I said we'd never go to this bar, ever, I'm glad we did because country night wasn't all that bad.

The following day was Sal's actual birthday - November 30th, and that's when we had plans to go to Dave & Busters for the night (I told you he's a child). Before we left though, I knew I had to give Sal his birthday present that he had practically begged me for, so when he opened it, it was no surprise. I tried tricking him by telling him I didn't buy him anything, but he didn't even mind. So I eventually gave him his gift - a GoPro wrapped in princess wrapping paper! While he opened it I smiled, because he was genuinely happy, and I'm glad it was because of me.

I couldn't bask in all of the happiness though, because we had to leave. This was the first year that my brother was allowed to come being that he turned 21 this year. Other friends arrived little by little, but we were already playing games, and getting competitive, trying to win the most tickets. If you've never been to D&Bs, I suggest you go as soon as you can - it's like Chuckie Cheese for adults, with drinks and prizes! After playing for what felt like hours, we decided to take a short break for some snacks, and I may or may not have eaten a whole order of spinach and artichoke dip... okay not the whole thing, but close enough, which my brother informed me while laughing that I probably just consumed 1000 calories. Whoops! I wasn't going to complain about calories when I was having a good time. The waitress ended up messing up our order, so lucky enough for us we were able to all eat and refuel for under $15.00! We played a few more games, but then we headed home, having full bellies and a card filled with tickets. While none of us traded in our tickets for prizes, we knew we'd be back soon enough. to get bigger prizes. We didn't leave before snapping a Christmas card though!

Happy Birthday Salvatore; I hope you had one amazing birthday! I'm glad I could spend yet another birthday with you - that's 6 years in a row! 

Happy Birthday, Mom!

My mom's birthday usually lasts all month; and boy do I enjoy her singing, "It's my birthday, it's my birthday' all October long. Despite her belief that a birthday should be celebrated all month long, we only celebrate the weekend of her birthday. Last year, I threw her a surprise 50th birthday party, inviting all her friends to a local bar and restaurant, with decorations and a birthday cake too! While it wasn't a huge get together this year, it still included most of my mom's friends and the people that mean a lot to her, especially my brother who came home from school just for her birthday.

I couldn't get there until after work, but my mom didn't mind; it was the fact that I was there that showed I cared, and really, how could I miss my mom's birthday!? When I arrived I made my mom open her birthday gift. I had went to Pandora earlier in the week to get more charms for her bracelet that we promised we'd attempt to fill it with each occasion that passed. I had originally planned on getting her two charms, but fell in love with three of them when I paired them together on the string in the store. When she opened up the box, her eyes filled with tears. She immediately realized the significance of all of them: an opal for her birth stone, angel wings in memory of my grandmother, her mother, and pink and purple sea glass, that signified the ocean/beach, where my grandma loved to spend her time, looking for shark teeth.

We eventually ordered pizza and drinks, and thankfully, knowing the bartender meant that he was there whenever we needed another round. Clashing of plates, screaming happy birthday while the cake was brought out, and laughing so hard we received quite the looks from the surrounding tables, meant that it was a successful night, aside from the fact that they served my mom a slice of carrot cake with a candle on it... who even eats carrot cake?! Ever heard of ice cream cake? We snapped a few pictures, and before we knew it the night was coming to an end. My mom wasn't ready to call it a night though, (I swear sometimes I think she has more energy than I do), so she stayed out for a little longer with her friend. While I'm all for celebrations, there are just some nights after work where I don't have an extra ounce of energy, and I can't force my eyes to stay open any longer. I know that my mom had a great time though, because we were all there, for her. 

Happy Birthday Mom - I love you so, so much. You deserve all the happiness in the world.