As I stand at the threshold of my 39th birthday, I can’t help but reflect on the whirlwind that was my 38th year. It’s been a journey marked by growth, transformation, challenges, and new beginnings, each moment adding to the chaos and beauty of my life. Here’s a recap of the highlights and lessons from my past year:
Living Alone for the First Time
One of the most significant changes of this past year was living in my home alone for the first time (ever!). Although my marriage ended quite some time beforehand, less than a month before my 38th birthday last year was when my now ex-husband officially moved out. Going from never having lived alone before in my 38 years to then finding myself all by myself with just the furballs was both daunting and liberating. I learned to love my own company, to revel in the silence, conquer some fears and home maintenance mishaps, and to take pride in making a home that reflects my personality. My home is now on its way to becoming my very own personal space, a sanctuary where I can recharge, dream, grow, and live happily ever after (hopefully).
Divorce Finalized
My divorce was finalized this year, bringing an end to a very, very long chapter of my life. It was a bittersweet milestone, but one that has paved the way for new opportunities and personal growth. Through the process, I discovered my strength and resilience, realizing that endings can also be beautiful new beginnings and you can’t open a new door until the old one closes.
First Trip to the Beach
I finally took a vacation from work and went on my first trip as an adult to the beach. It was everything I hoped it would be and more. The sun, the sand, the sound of the waves – it was a sensory delight. Plus fishing in the ocean was so much fun! I felt a profound sense of peace and joy, reminding me of the importance of taking time to escape the everyday hustle and enjoy the simple pleasures in life with wonderful company.
Culinary Adventures
This year was also about expanding my culinary horizons. I tried a variety of new foods, each one an adventure for my taste buds. (I’ll share the detailed list of new foods I’ve tried later.) This exploration has made me appreciate the diversity of flavors and the joy of discovering something new. I’ve also found that my tastes have changed significantly in this last year and even small things that I never cared for before I’m really enjoying, like mustard and avocados.
Reconnecting with an Old Friend
One of the most unexpected joys of this year was reconnecting with an old friend. What started as just sliding into my DMs just to say hello and check in on how I was doing has blossomed into a long-distance relationship filled with excitement and hope. It’s a reminder that life has a way of bringing people back to us when we least expect it and renewing our faith in the possibility of a meaningful loving relationship.
Home Makeover
During this past year I really started to focus on making over my home, repainting and redecorating here and there. This project was not just about changing the physical space, but also about creating an environment that inspires and comforts me. Each brushstroke and décor choice is a step toward making my house a true home with my own personal tastes and decor that pleases only me.
Astros Game
Going to an Astros game was another highlight of my year. The energy, the excitement, and the camaraderie of the fans made it an unforgettable experience. It was a reminder of the joy that comes from being part of something bigger, of sharing moments of triumph and defeat with others. Plus, it was $1 hot dog night and those weenies were amazing!
First Comedy Show
I went to my first comedy show and had an amazing time! I had the thrill of sitting in the front row and even got to do a meet-and-greet with the comedian. He took a picture with us and gave us his autograph, making the night even more memorable. I laughed so hard and enjoyed every moment. The show was in January though, and right after it ended, a cold front blew in. The weather went from pleasant and actually rather warm for the wintertime (even in Texas) to freezing and incredibly windy within a couple of hours. Despite the sudden blistering wind chill, the experience was totally worth it, even while we walked to Casino El Camino, a downtown Austin restaurant, where we had the best burger I’ve ever tasted. That was another first for me and it was absolutely delish!
Starting My Blog
This year, I also took a leap of faith and started this blog. Sharing my experiences, thoughts, and tips has been incredibly rewarding. It’s been a platform for me to connect with a community of amazing women, to offer support, and to receive it in return. Writing has become a therapeutic outlet for me and the positive feedback from my readers (you!) has been overwhelming. This blog has allowed me to document my journey, celebrate my achievements, and reflect on my growth. I also love that it will serve as sort of a written scrapbook of memories, experiences, and my thoughts that I can look back on at any time in the future.
First Music Festival
One of the most exhilarating experiences this year was attending my first music festival. The atmosphere was electric, with the energy of the bands and the crowd creating an unforgettable ambiance. Dancing and singing along under the open sky, discovering new favorite artists, and sharing the experience with new friends was a joyous celebration of life and country music. It reminded me of the power of music to bring people together and create lasting memories. In addition, this trip was the first time I’d been away in an RV and that in itself was another incredible adventure! My first RV shower went surprisingly well.
Improving My Overactive Bladder
This year has also brought significant improvements to my overactive bladder, a condition I’ve struggled with for over 11 years. For the first time, I managed to make progress without relying on medication. It’s been a journey of patience and persistence, and I’m incredibly grateful for the healing that has taken place in my body. While I’m nowhere near completely healed, the improvements have given me hope and a new sense of control over my health and have given me the confidence to slowly start having some normalcy in my life again. Having the right medical team that listens, advocates, and provides alternative solutions has been life changing. Without them, most of the experiences I’ve enjoyed over this last year would have never happened.
Discovering Helpful New Gadgets
On a lighter note, I’ve also discovered some funny yet incredibly helpful new gadgets this year. The toilet foot stool, bidet, and water flosser have also been welcomed additions to my daily routine. Though they aren’t new inventions, they are new to me, and I can’t imagine life without them now. These simple tools have improved my comfort and hygiene, proving that even the smallest changes can have a big impact.
Reflections and Gratitude
As I close the chapter on my 38th year, I’m filled with gratitude for the experiences that have shaped me. Each moment, each challenge, and each triumph has contributed to the person I am today. I’ve learned to embrace change, to find joy in the little things, and to be open to new possibilities.
Embracing Change
Living alone taught me the value of independence and self-reliance. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and made me more confident in my ability to handle life’s ups and downs without the leader as I’d been used to. I’ve embraced solitude as an opportunity for self-discovery and personal growth.
Finding Joy in the Little Things
Whether it was savoring a new dish, feeling the sand between my toes, or seeing my home transform with a fresh coat of paint, I’ve learned to appreciate the little moments that make life special. These small joys have a way of adding up, creating a rich tapestry of experiences.
Being Open to New Possibilities
Reconnecting with the Chef and starting a new relationship was a testament to being open to new possibilities. It wasn’t something I planned (at all!), but it turned out to be one of the most fulfilling parts of my year. Life has a way of surprising us when we remain open and receptive to what it has to offer.
Looking Ahead
As I step into my 39th year, I carry with me the lessons, blessings, and memories of the past year. I’m excited about what the future holds, knowing that I have the strength, resilience, and openness to face whatever comes my way. Here’s to new adventures, continued growth, and finding joy in the journey.
Thank you for being a part of my journey so far and for allowing me to share these moments with you. Here’s to completing Level 38 and looking forward to the adventures that await in Level 39!
With love and gratitude for another year around the sun,
-LS