Life and Turning 27

So my 27th birthday was a few weeks ago, and it came with a shocking revelation. It got me to thinking about all the seasons/lessons in my life that came with growing up.

     18- I looked forward to 18. It meant I was able to go to 18 & over clubs (yes that was exciting at the time now those places are just awkward) and I could buy lotto tickets. At that age I felt as though the world was mine and I was finally considered an adult. I pretty much did what I wanted without thinking of the possible dangers or repercussions. Oh yea, college!

     20- At 20 I just felt confused I was no longer a teen but not a "real" adult. Yet I had to make decisions about my future without totally knowing what the heck I wanted.

     21-Then I turned 21. You are allowed to drink legally and I guess the country thinks we are "mature" enough to drink. I often question that. When I was 21 I thought I was mature but some of my decisions were not.

     Early 20's - I went to concerts, parties, I traveled, hangout with friends (a lot) and still managed to graduate college. It's the time in your life when you have the time of your life and through that journey begin to see what is truly important in life. This was a time when I noticed that life is short, love hurts, true friendships are rare and God is real (how about I pay attention). A huge part of life where you begin to find yourself.

THE TURNING POINT
     25- At this point I had graduated college and still no career, stressed about what I was going to be when I grew up. Hahahaha. I got married and found that you naturally start taking your significant other into consideration, and know its not just about yourself.
     I also noticed I wasn't much of a dare devil anymore, not as willing to take risks and get into trouble. Being in bed by 9 on Friday or Saturday night became the norm. Having a nice relaxing day was just as fun as "going out".
     Along with priority changes came some physical changes. This is when I started realizing that I got tired faster. My knees started hurting if I stood too long, or if it was too cold or just because. I also became familiar with random white hairs and dreaded chin hairs! I should probably be embarrassed to admit this but thats life. I think if your 25 and haven't found chin hairs or at least one white hair on your head then your not looking hard enough!

     26- Learning to do life with my husband.

     27- Now I think, "I'M 27!!". I am rounded to the practically 30 age group. At 26 I still felt as though I could get away with things by claiming ignorance. That absolutely wont fly at 27. Most of my friends are either getting married or having kids. How did that happen?!
     I am much calmer. Don't get me wrong, I am still an adventurer but just with a different approach from when I was 18-24. I watch what I eat (most of the time) for health reasons. Life is about family, my few close friends, and enjoying life in a not YOLO kinda way. Oh yea still no career, just jobs, but I am enjoying the ride.

All the things I have listed are not complaints as much as they are refections. Refections of how life moves from one phase to the next providing God gifts us another day to live it. I still have quite a few phases of life to go, this is just a reminder for me to savor each moment because it comes and goes so quickly.

Celebrating turing 27 has been wonderful.  I will be sharing what I did to celebrate my birthday that might be good ideas for your next celebration.