On Turning 30

I'll start with a conversation with my oldest:

Me: Wanna help me open some birthday presents, bud?
Josiah: Sure, what are you gonna turn?
Me: {hesitantly} 30...
Josiah: Wow, you're that old, Mom?

That's what I kept thinking! I'm that old?! Really? Because I promise, in my head I'm maybe mid-20s. When did I get to the end of that decade and jump over to the new one? Ok, only 3 days ago, but still. I'm pretty sure I'll still be shocked when people ask my age and I have to sputter out "30."

Alright, alright. So I'm taking it kinda hard. Yes. I am. I can't actually pinpoint why, either. I had some things I wanted to accomplish by turning 30 that haven't happened yet, but I'm ok with those now. Maybe it's just the turn of a new decade. Soon 30-something will be flowing out of my mouth like it's nothin'.

Leading up to my birthday, I kept whining about the new number. Thanks to all of my dear friends who encouraged me. More than anything else, most wrote that the 30s are the most fun...most exciting...and that life only gets better. Really? I truly thought my college days were pretty darn awesome. But I think what's ahead may be a different kind of awesome.

 I will admit, though, I'm having a hard time foreseeing what could possibly be more exciting than getting married, having 2 adorable kids, and moving to a foreign land. I mean, we're gonna have to take up cliff jumping or something to keep the excitement levels up! 

To welcome me into a new era, my dear friends threw me a party, including burgers, coconut cream pie (FAVE), games, and presents. Pretty much a perfect way to celebrate!

Seriously amazing pie. For someone to tackle this in a land that doesn't carry half the ingredients was amazing!!

Christmas

Whoa, where did December go again? I feel like I was swallowed up by all the activities--in a good way. Actually, as I write this, I have to keep reminding myself that it will be a new year in 3 hours. Doesn't. even. feel. like. it. For real. Not even on my radar one bit. What is in my radar? Thailand. 2 weeks. Reunite with my parents and aunt we haven't seen in 1.5 years. More about that later.

So, Christmas was grand. Much better than last year, I'd say. Being in a place with a huge community has its pros and cons. I'd say Christmas is something you have to work for around here.

The students get one day off and some would rather just spend it alone, rejuvenating for the last few weeks of class looming ahead. Personally, I want people around me. The holidays are a little tough for me, and add into the mix no one beyond my hubby and kids, and I'm not a happy camper. That's what happened last year, and I was a little depressed. So, this year, I took matters into my own hands and made sure we had people to celebrate with! 4 awesome friends came over and camped out for the whole day. I loved it. Ok, I missed out on an afternoon nap, but other than that, loved it!

We exchanged gifts, ate brunch, played games, watched movies, ate a small Christmas dinner (which included home-cured ham, a first!), and enjoyed each other's company as our China family.

 What a great gift from our friends/neighbors! That's a sacrifice to share from such a precious stash. Funny thing is, Malachi's first time having it, he didn't like it. No worries--Josiah ate his share!

We realized all but 2 gifts this year were practical. These shades will get lots of good use come Thailand time! Let's hope they last with this crazy dude...

Hopeful this will come in handy while on our trek south!

New hooded towels made by Grammy. They even have their initials on the back! Too cute.