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On Turning 30

Today, yes, today on March 19th, 2013, I turn 30 years old.  Wait.  Hold up!  When did that happen?

Wasn’t I just 5 and losing my first tooth?  Or 10 and suiting up to play softball with the Nasty Tigers on Saturdays?  Or 15 and learning how to parallel park (or at least making brave attempts)?  Or 20 and wearing a pink beehive wig in my college’s production of Into the Woods?  Or 25 and terrified to be student teaching?

On Turning 30 | The Thinking Closet

Maybe you can resonate with me on this, but it seems that every birthday feels somewhat surreal because I never quite feel what I pictured I would feel at that age.  I mean, “30” always seemed so far off…so “old.”  But here I am, and I feel anything but old!  I mean, I’m proud to say, I’ve still got ups:

On Turning 30 | The Thinking Closet
Mark and me upon arriving in Florida after our road trip from Ohio this past summer.

So, I think the conclusion I’ve come to as to why I don’t quite “feel” what I expected I would feel, is that I carry all of the ages with me.  So, when I’m standing in line for ice cream, I’m very much a giddy child.  Or when I’m speaking up in a group for the first time, I’m ever the awkward adolescent.  And whenever I attend a conference or lecture, I become the college student eager to take notes and soak up knowledge.  Cue the music.

And that theory holds true until this moment happens:

On Turning 30 | The Thinking Closet
This gave me a chuckle.

Funnies aside, I’m actually really excited about turning 30 and discovering what this new decade will hold for me.  I have a sneaking suspicion that it is going to be a grand adventure with a lot more leaping straight up into the air!

Dear reader, what are your thoughts on growing older?  Do you dread birthdays or delight in them?  And if you’re in your 30s, what do I have to look forward to?  Spill the beans!

{I like to link up here.}

This is Lauren, signing off.

89 Comments

  1. Happy Belated Birthday my sweet seestah. I enjoyed reading this post again!! Though your birthday has come and gone, I still have one song to sing to you, though it be over a month later: “Climb, climb up sunshine mountain, Heavenly breezes blow. Climb, climb up sunshine mountain, Faces all aglow. Turn, turn from sin and (darkness?), Look to God on High. Climb, climb up sunshine mountain, You and I!!!” 😀

    1. Thanks, sis! Just tonight, I was recollecting on the phone to Justine our uh-mazing 5+ days together back in March for my b-day celebration. And it takes me back to the hallowed walls of Setzuan to hear you sing “Climb, Climb.” And I was glad to see you chose the “correct” lyrics (“look to God on high”…remember that debate?).

  2. I’m 43 this July Lauren and still feel in my 20’s. I truly believe age is relative and what you make of it. Mr.Sweet Butter turned 51 this year, (also on March 19th btw) 🙂 and he’s always telling himself how old he is getting. I just say “yep because you say you are.” I have a baby sister four years younger than me and everything thinks I’m the youngest.

    Must be something to it….but perhaps sunscreen helps. 🙂
    Gorgeous home btw.

    1. Wow! First I find out we’re Florida buddies and now I learn that your hubby is my birthday buddy? How serendipitous is that?!

      And I’m glad you agree that age is a state of mind…and we can choose how old or young we want to feel. I can tell from your comments on my blog tonight alone that you have a vibrant and youthful spirit. No wonder you get mistaken for being the youngest in your family. (That’s a great compliment.)

      And thanks for the kind words on the house! It actually belongs to my in-laws. We had arrived at their home the night before before moving into our rental in Orlando. We were so excited to have made it safe n’ sound (with two boats in tow) that jumping into the air only seemed fitting.

  3. Happy (belated) Birthday, new blog friend! 🙂 Sounds like it was a wonderful day – makes me less nervous about turning 30 next year!

    – Miranda
    The Good Groupie

  4. . . . . . (). () () (). ()
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    Age is a number even though sometimes after 50 if feels like hell. LOL
    Hope you had an awesome birthday

    1. Wow! Thanks for the birthday cake and sweet wishes, Carla! Yes, it was an awesome birthday…and it seems the gifts just keep coming (this comment included). My sister just left us yesterday after a surprise 5-day visit. Best birthday gift I could have asked for!

  5. Happy belated Birthday. I’ll be 30 next year and I’m feeling the same way you are feeling. I didn’t expect to feel like this when I’m 30. But I’ll tell you as much as I dread the number I’m happy to know that people (in the business world) will finally start to respect and give me more acknowledgement as I grow older. 30 in my book is the magic number–finally becoming established in life.

    1. Thanks, Katie! And what you wrote about feeling like 30 will help legitimize you in the eyes of the business world, I actually feel similarly about teaching. I think when students hear you’re in your twenties, they automatically assume you’re more interested in being their friend than teacher…but a teacher in her thirties, as my students have said, “That’s old.” Just how I like it! (At least, in the classroom. R-E-S-P-E-C-T, find out what it means to me….)

  6. Happy Birthday, darling daughter of mine!! Thanks for sharing with us what it’s like for you to turn 30 and your desire to live in the present. Wise decision!

    Mark was so thoughtful and creative to give you breakfast in bed–it looked yummy–and it was fun to see pictures and hear about your day including “Lisbeth in a box.” Enjoy your time together these next five days!
    I love you, Mom
    PS–though I’m in my 60s I still feel about 27 years old (when I met your dad) and am thankful for energy, stamina, dreams [I still want to write a novel and maybe get my PhD in nursing history and volunteer in ministry at L’Abri or in Israel…], and the joy of doing new and challenging things, and continuing to learn so much!! There’s a great verse, Ecclesiastes 5:20 (I just changed it to the feminine perspective), “She seldom reflects on the days of her life, because God keeps her occupied with gladness of heart.” CHEERS!!!! xxxooo (((HUGS)))

    1. Thanks, Mama! And what a fitting and beautiful verse you referenced; something to store up in my heart! And I loved hearing about the dreams and goals you still carry…I can see you accomplishing them all! And you amaze me with your thirst for learning, passion for serving, and fervor to build relationships. If anything, I see you as younger at heart than ever before! And I want to be just like you when I’m in my 60s! (((HUGS BACK)))

      1. Thanks for all of your sweet and generous encouragement! I KNOW I’ve learned so much from you and Lisbeth (and your dad) about living life fully and enjoying every moment that perhaps I am getting “younger at heart.” 🙂
        I think you will be even MORE of who God planned YOU to be (if that’s possible) as you age. This world is going to need sowers and doers of the word like never before…those who wait patiently on Him…who put their trust in Him…those who exercise His creativity! Love you!

        1. Yes, I agree that it is possible to get “younger at heart” as we grow older in age, and as you said, closer to who God created us to be. Perhaps it’s part of sanctification…. Hope you have a blessed Good Friday, Mama. Love you, too!

  7. Happy belated Birthday Lauren!! I wish I could offer stellar advice as I am long past turning 30 but I am one of those people who really doesn’t like getting older. Blame it on me being an Aries or something, we’re so dramatic. I am much more comfortable in my skin and in my mind, as a lot of my biggest life events have happened in my 30’s but I am the rare person who would love to go back to my mid-twenties (for reasons that would take a novel to explain). So ignore me and take everyone else’s wise words of wisdom!!

    1. I actually would love to read that novel (or anything that you write for that matter, Alex). And as a fellow drama queen, I can also tend to make a bigger deal out of things than need be…which I guess lends itself to my career choice of theatre teaching and directing! Ha ha. Hope you’re having a great weekend!

  8. (((Lauren))) Happy Belated Birthday! It’s never too late to tell you that the world is a better place with you on the planet. This year holds incredible promise for you and I’m extremely delighted that I’ve met you in blog land. I can remember when I turned 30. It was an exciting time and very scary. Usually, the midpoint of the decade I’m experiencing really gets me pondering because I’m half way to the next decade (like 35, 45, or 55) It will be exciting to watch you grow in leaps and bounds this year! As for me with my heart condition, I’m slowing down but savoring every moment. I’m in St. Augustine Florida this weekend and heading out with my camera to catch some photos before the town wakes up. Enjoy celebrating your wonderful blog adventure this year!!

    1. Sandy, I, too am so grateful to have met you! Thank you for your always encouraging and affirming comments; seriously, you have no idea what it means to me.

      I know it can be hard to embrace a new rhythm, especially when you’re used to living life at a much different pace; but I think you’re adjusting gracefully. And there really is an art to living in the present, and how wonderful that you’re tapping into that now, “savoring every moment.” An example for us all!

      How crazy that you’re in St. Augustine; we actually contemplating a trip up that way on Monday to show my sister more of Florida, but I think we’re going to opt for something with a less longer drive, like New Smyrna Beach (the shark capital of the world!). Would love to see the photos you capture of your visit there. I hear it’s a beautiful place, rich with history. Savor those moments, Sandy!

  9. 1. Sorry for the late birthday wish! But happy birthday all the same!!!
    2. As I was reading this, I immidietly thought about how I watched 13 going on 30 today! Prepare to be Thirty, Flirty and thriving!!
    3. As I was scrolling down to leave a comment, I saw all of your replies and thought “Wow lauren is such a great blogger!! Mental note, reply to comments more like lauren!!”

    Hope your birthday was so fabulous!!

    -Rachel

    1. 1. Thanks, girlfriend! And I’m celebrating my birthday all month long (I decided), so you’re not late at all!
      2. Oooo! 13 going on 30. I thoroughly enjoyed that movie, especially the Thriller scene. Need to re-watch!
      3. Aw shucks. I think you’re an awesome blogger, too. I love how honest you are…and how you can say so much in just a few words and photos. I need to work on my conciseness skills! Ha ha. And thanks for helping to make my blog so beautiful with your incredible design. It feels so…ME!

      Hugs,
      Lauren

  10. Oh I hear ya, I just don’t feel old at all and I’m not sure I ever will. I never much like the phrase being “a kid inside” because that makes it sound like something you grow out of and I think that’s just silliness.

    1. Silliness indeed! I don’t ever plan to grow out of my “kid inside” and from what I know of you, Aubrey, I dare say you won’t either! I like the image that Julia Cameron gives in her book, The Artist’s Way of your internal artist being a creative child. She says, “Remember, your artist is a child. Find and protect that child.” I’m committed to doing that through all seasons and ages of life.

  11. I’m know I’m late but I’m still gonna shout it:
    HAPPY BIRTHDAAAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYYYYY!!

    I turn 30 this October, and I am SO feeling what you wrote. This was an awesome post. Today I was thinking about turning 30, and I thought – I am okay with that. So far, I like life right now. Tomorrow I might freak out again, but today, it’s okay.

    I hope your today was fantastic!

    1. Aw…thanks for the declaration, Kelly! You’re the sweetest. And I don’t think I realized how close we were in age. Yet another reason why we’re bloggy bffs.

      I know, I was surprisingly okay with turning 30; I know a lot of folk have a freak-out moment, but not me. For some reason, I just feel ready for whatever lies ahead. Now, when I turned 20, it was a different story. I was so sad to leave my teenage years behind for fear of leaving behind my childlike nature. Turns out, I took it with me! (And I dare say you have, too, my playful, goofy friend.)

      Thanks for sweet comment, Kelly. It always brightens my day to hear from you!

  12. Happy belated Birthday Lauren! 🙂 I hope you had a great time with family and friends! WOW! 30! 🙂 (I am hoping your hubby spoiled you for your birthday; like he did for Christmas) !!! btw, left you 2 comments yesterday (not showing), remember my comments were blocked last January, well unfortunately it happened again yesterday; Askimet were able to resolve it but it’s so weird. Anyhow, hope you enjoyed your birthday (funny mine was the 18th & yours the 19th; dates so close) ha!ha! 🙂

    1. Thanks for your comment, Ingrid, and for being persistent! I actually checked my spam yesterday and saw your double comment…which I thought was strange! I unspammed it, but for some reason, I don’t think it went through. Anyway, I’m glad to hear you knew about it and that Akismet got it worked out. These blogging glitches never seem to end, do they? At least you’re still smiling!

      Mark did pull out all the stops yesterday…I’ll hopefully share the story in a future blog post! Happy belated birthday to you, too, Ingrid! Love that we’re practically birthday buddies.

  13. 30 was a hard one for me because I was single and I would have rather been married and starting a family so I felt behind on life. On the other hand, I had a career I loved and was very close to signing my first book contract. Looking back on 30 (now that I’m 41), I can say that the 30s were my most satisfying decade. They were incredibly difficult, because at 32, I sustained the traumatic brain injury that ended both my profession and writing careers, lost my house, and had a lot of physical and emotional healing to do. But they were most satisfying because I found that when everything is torn away, you find out who and what is true. I am different in so many ways, but more content, more joyful, and…thanks to God’s incredible sense of humor, blissfully married and loving being a mommy to my little boy.

    Happy birthday, Lauren! May it be your most satisfying decade yet!

    1. What wisdom and perspective you have to see the beauty that came from the ashes. It’s neat to hear how God blessed your 30s…and beyond!

      I can relate to what you wrote about discovering truth when everything else is stripped away. It brings to mind an experience I had in high school where I felt like my world was falling apart; and looking back, I see that as what jumpstarted my relationship with God and also strengthened my relationship with my parents. Yes, God certainly does have a sense of humor! Though I sometimes don’t get the joke right away. 🙂

      Thanks for your wish for my 30s to be satisfying. I love that word…and hope for that, too!

  14. Happy Birthday, Lauren! (I meant to get back on the computer last night but didn’t so I apologize for being a day late.) My feeling is once you hit 30, age is truly just a number.;) Hope you had a fabulous day celebrating your birthday!

    Cindy

    1. No apologies needed! I actually like to designate the whole month of March as a birthday celebration…so thanks for helping to spread it out. Yes, age IS just a number, and nothing more!

  15. Oh, Lauren! Happy, happy, birthday!!!! I had no idea you were a March baby too! I hope you had an amazing day, and that this year is the best one yet!! 🙂

    1. Hooray for March babies! (I think I read once that March is the most popular month for births!) And yesterday WAS amazing. Started off with breakfast in bed and ended with a super surprise which I’ll be sharing later. Your special day is coming up on March 31st! (Checked your FB profile.) Happy early birthday to you!

  16. Happy birthday!! Like you, the 30s always sounded like some distant age to me, but as I get older I am realizing that everything is so relative and exactly like you so eloquently put, we are just a big sloppy wonderful mess of all the ages we’ve ever been through and feelings we’ve felt. I’m excited to get older gradually and experience everything life has! Thanks for the post 🙂

    xoxo
    Melyssa
    http://thenectarcollective.com

    1. Glad to have found someone else as excited as I am to experience the joys that come with each new year of life that I’m granted. Thanks for your enthusiastic response, Melyssa! You have a marvelous way with words. P.S. I love the spelling of your name! It’s beautiful.

  17. Happy Birthday, lovely lady!!!!!! 30 is great! Enjoy every moment of it. I, personally, LOVE my birthdays. Every year gets better and better, but boy, did that e-card make me laugh. It’s SO true! I never feel my age. I’m 42 and I feel about 17, until my babysitter says something like “Who’s Joan Jett?” and then I’m back being 42 again!

    1. Ha ha. I totally know what you mean. I showed a clip from Ferris Bueller’s Day Off in English class, and I think only one person had ever seen or heard of the movie. That aged me right there. Thanks for the well-wishes, Michelle!

  18. Happy belated birthday hun! You are going to rock the 30’s like they have never been rocked before! Hope you had a fantastic day (and got a little spoilt :D) xXx

    1. Thanks, Hannah! And yes, I was definitely spoiled by my family, friends, and Mark yesterday. I felt so much love…I almost didn’t know what to do with it all, but just tried to receive it! 😉

    1. Beth! Thanks for your sweet birthday note. Ha ha, and I love that you can’t keep track of your age. That’s probably a good sign that you’re busy living life and not worrying about silly details like age. 🙂

  19. Happy happy birthday! I hope you have a wonderful day! And welcome to the thirty something club!

    I’m glad to hear that you are excited for 30. I turned 30 last year and it made me feel depressed.

    My wonderful mother cheered me up, though. I had mentioned to her that I was thinking about taking up jewelry making for a hobby and was looking at taking some classes. Well she surprised me with tools and a gift certificate.

    I also started blogging to help keep me focused on hobbies and doing something for me. I’ve been pretty blah about my birthdays.

    It is hard to believe I’m a thirty something. But when people mistake me for a twenty something, I always like to correct them.

    My brother is now 41. He doesn’t look 41 to me (and certainly doesn’t act it!). My mother always says, “when I grow up, I want to be a…” Even in her mid sixties she’s dreaming about her future.

    I guess no matter how old we get, we never feel our age. It is too abstract of a concept.

    1. Thanks, Bethany! I’m honored to join the 30-something-club.

      And I loved hearing some of the backstory as to how you got into jewelry making and blogging. Interesting how something that initially depressed you ended up being the impetus to inspire you creatively! Isn’t that often the case? I also love that you’re mother is still dreaming of what she wants to be when she grows up. That’s how I want to live my life! And I can tell it’s how you’re living yours.

      And I can relate to the correcting part. A lot of people assume I’m in my early twenties (I take that as a compliment…and know it won’t last for long), so I love to shock them and say with pride, “No, I’m actually thirty!” So there. 🙂

  20. Happy Birthday! Your still a baby. Just had my 50th. I just don’t know where the time has gone. I’m just happy I don’t feel it.

  21. Happy Birthday, Lauren!! I was the last of my group of close friends to turn 30, so that made the transition easier for me, I think. I didn’t have to be the first to leave my twenties behind. I think you come into your own in your 30’s…and start to really love the things about you that make you different rather than trying to blend in. The card you posted is SO true. My friends and I still feel like we’re young enough at heart to be in college…until we go back to visit for a football game and see REAL college students walking around and think, “They’re babies! Did we really look (and act!) like that!?” Enjoy your day! xo

    1. Wow! After reading all of the comments from today’s post, the general consensus seems to be that the thirties are an AWESOME decade. That was my hunch, so, it’s exciting to see that confirmed by you and so many others! Ha ha, I had a similar experience of hanging with college students and feeling the age gap this past summer when Mark volunteered as camp doctor up in Wisconsin. The students there were incoming freshman, but seemed more like “kids,” and I could see the fear in their eyes about starting college. I remember that fear…but I also remember feeling like I was a hot shot adult at 18, when really, I had SO much to learn. #pridecomethbeforethefall

  22. Happy Happy 30th Birthday! You are so going to love your 30s! Been there, done that and wish I could go back and enjoy them again…40s are pretty great as well, though you definitely start seeing the years sneaking up on you (grey hairs, cellulite, fine lines…oh my!). I remember being terrified of turning 25, I just wasn’t where I imagined I would be at that age, but by 30 I was settled in and comfortable with who I had become. Life is grand, enjoy your day, your year and your new decade!

    1. Thanks for these sweet words, Diana, and for your charge there at the end! I feel inspired. And I’m happy to say that I can definitely resonate with those feelings that you describe of being “settled in and comfortable with who I had become.” That has been a wonderful aspect of growing older…and though I know those grey hairs, cellulite, and fine lines will hit hard in the years to come, I like to think that they’re signs of a life well lived. Bring on the laugh lines, I say! Ha ha.

  23. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! 🙂 My parents never made a big deal about birthdays growing up but I love them (maybe that’s why I love them so much??). I think the only time I’ve ever felt “older” on a birthday was when I turned 20–there is something very freeing about not being labeled a teenager! All of a sudden you’re not having an “attitude,” you’re just irritated like any reasonable, rational person would be in that situation! lol. Anyway, I hope you have a lovely birthday and that your 30s treat you better than any years prior 🙂

    Hugs,
    Gabby

    P.S. {new blog is almost ready!! so excited!! I put the link so you can preview if you want…nothing posted yet and it looks pretty similar to what I had before but different colors, one column, fewer distracting things, consolidated tabs, all that good stuff. here’s to new beginnings! oh and also, you and the thinking closet got a little shout out in the thank you setion at the bottom 🙂 }

    1. I love that you love birthdays, Gabby! And I think it’s interesting to learn about your experience of turning 20. I can understand that desire to be taken more seriously and not having your emotions labeled as “typical teenager.” That used to frustrate me to no end.

      And I took a peek at the new digs, and Gabby, it looks absolutely beautiful! You should feel so proud. I know it was a huge process for you in figuring out what your next best steps should be for growing your blog…but I think you landed right where you should. And I’m thrilled to see this blog takes wings and fly. I loving seeing elements of your original design (so it still has your handprint), yet I also see a new understated elegance to your look and new name. It’s clear and easy to navigate (just my style). And I am totally blown away by your shout out in the footer! Totally unnecessary, but oh so sweet. Thanks, girl!

  24. Happy happy birthday! You’re going to LOVE your 30’s. I’m only {almost} 3 years in, but I like them even more than my 20s. In my 30s I have felt more confident, more settled, more sure of life and able to say what I think without reserve (but still with kindness, of course). I look at how I’ve changed even in the last 3 years and I think the growth has been tremendous. I know it must sound silly to those with many more years than I, but my 30s have definitely been a more “adult” time for me, and not just because I’m now responsible for 3 children (still shocking sometimes!), but because I have a better knowledge of who I am, and I feel good with who that person is. You are going to continue to do great things and grow no matter what your age!

    As for your comic picture, I can totally relate. I am the “old lady” bridesmaid in a 21 year old’s wedding this summer and I’m feeling it! But thrilled to be a part of a wedding celebration again after almost 10 years of marriage. Hope you have the best of birthdays and party like you’re 30! Love you much!

    1. Hearing your description of your thirties make me giddy with glee for what’s to come! I’m eager to grow more into the woman God created me to be and to embrace “adulthood” with open arms and a thirst for adventure, as you have!

      Ha ha, and I loved picturing you as a bridesmaid among 21 year olds. That would have definitely been an interesting experience! Though you are totally the kind of person who I’m sure blessed them with your wisdom while was still able to be a goofball.

  25. HAPPY BIRTHDAY my dear Lauren!!! <3
    I hope you have a wonderful day! I'm wishing you only the best for your next year and decade!

    There's not much I can say about the 30s… 😉 I still have five more years until I'm there. Maybe, when I'm turning 30 birthdays are interesting again? Right now I just think, they're boring. On my last birthday I was on vacation, alone. And it was great. No one who pushes me to give a party or annoying phone calls. No, I'm just bored of birthdays.

    Love, Midsommarflicka

    1. Thanks, Midsommarflicka! And I’m sorry to hear birthdays have been boring lately. But I don’t think parties are necessarily what make birthday so much fun. One of my favorite birthdays was my 25th when I spent the day visiting the Cloisters in New York City with my Mom and friend Rebecca. We toured the museum (which incorporates parts from five different French abbeys), enjoyed times of journaling and reflection, and welcomed in a new year of life surrounded by beauty. It was truly special.

      I wish for you a 25th year of life that surprises you with small joys…. And a 26th birthday that is anything but boring!

  26. Oh happiest of birthdays, dear Lauren!
    Many women have told me, ‘Your 30s will be so much better than your 20s.’ Not quite sure about that, as I’m only six months into this new decade myself, but I DO know that I’m not going to be bashful about my age. There’s a lot of pressure in our world for women to be eternally young (or at least young-looking), and I’ve decided to fight back! ‘Hey world, I’m 30 and not afraid to admit it. Whatcha gonna do about that, huh?!’ Love you!

    1. Becky! Great to hear from you here, my friend. And I admire your resolve not to be bashful about your age. I feel the same way! And I’m determined not to be one of those people who says, “Never ask a woman her age!” Ask away! I’ll fight that good fight with you.

      And in terms of Hollywood and the pressure they place on women to never age…I think so much of beauty is confidence. So, they won’t keep us down! (I feel so pumped up right now thanks to you.)

  27. Happy Happy Birthday Lauren! Get ready, that time ball will begin to roll faster and faster. I am approaching 60 and my mind still plays tricks with me and makes me think I am your age. 1983 was the year I turned 30 and I remember that year well . . .new owner of a jazz club with live entertainment and a live 2day 2 show performance by Wynton Marsalis. . . that time was magical.

    I hope your life is as fulfilled as mine with wonderful memories. Again, Happy Birthday!

    Karen

    1. Karen! I delighted to hear the story of your 1983. You owned a jazz club? And hosted Wynton Marsalis? That’s incredible! And it’s no wonder that you’re such a rich and vibrant person–you’re living your life to the full.

      Do you journal or write these stories down somewhere? Or are they just seared into your memory? If I don’t write things down, I usually lose them…so blogging has been a great way to document some of my recent adventures. And to meet incredible people out there in the world, like you!

      1. I should have kept a journal to keep everything fresh, but with all the moving around at that time, I am sure it would have been misplaced. Someday, maybe. . .going back to Wynton, he arrived later than the rest of the band (which included Branford) and it was because he was being fitted for his Tux for the Grammy’s. Our club’s showroom only seated 100 people and the acoustics were perfect. We spent big $$ per contract to get the correct piano, drums and mixing board that were required. When he saw the size of the room, he was so excited that it was so small that they did not need the sound equipment we rented. He felt so bad about it that he only charged us for 1 show performance. At that time, because he was so young, the media was calling him aloof, but he was not by any means once he spent some time getting acquainted. I still get goosebumps thinking about those nights he played. The sound that came out of that trumpet was unbelievable. He stunned everyone. He even made the comment after the first show that he thought that nobody enjoyed the performance. I remember telling him he was absolutely wrong that everyone was in shock because of such a beautiful sound he made with the trumpet.
        I’ve got more stories about that club – our first Casablanca in Charleston, WV.
        So sorry to take up your blogging space but I just want you to be able to remember all your fond memories of all the things you do and people you meet.

        1. Love all the details you remember! Especially what you said to him about the room being in shock of his beautiful playing. Wynton sounds like he was such a humble and generous man, too. I got to hear Wynton play in at Lincoln Center in NYC two years ago; so I know that trumpet sound you’re talking about! So smooth.

  28. Lauren, I turned 35 on Jan 4th and for me, once i turned 30, I stopped caring what my age was because in my opinion, society says after 30, women are “old”, at least in hollywood etc. I think that you determine your own age by your outlook on life and I can tell you will be one of those hilarious “young” grandmas. I feel just as young as I did but not as “stupid” or “naive”, my back and other body parts however, – a different story at times! HAPPY B-DAY!

    1. Ha ha, I love that you can already picture me being a hilarious “young” grandma. I actually think about that a lot! And hope I’m in one of those Red hat societies and am just as boisterous as ever. I can picture the same for you–and could see you being the life of the party with your silly jokes!

      And I was just talking with a friend about how although I still feel young at heart, my body does not! Guess that’s part of the journey. Thanks for your sweet words, Kelly!

  29. Happy birthday Lauren!

    When my 30th birthday came in, I started to hear a little clicckety clock, clicckety clock (my life was flowing and I was feeling like I was doing nothing important) and I began to desperately desire a baby… and I’ve never been a mum type!
    So for me 30 means… baby! Now!
    But you pass your life trying not to have babies and, when you think it’s the right time, maybe it isn’t, so we had to wait 3 LONG years… and today I’m 37 (aaaargh! how old am I? when and how did it happen?) and I have a fab 4YO LilPotato 🙂
    Just my 2 cents….
    Kisses, hugs and lots of fun
    MammaNene

    SergerPepper.blogspot.it

    1. I loved hearing your story of entering your thirties and how it came with a desire to grow your family. That’s exciting! I think it’s interesting how God changes our hearts when the timing is right. I remember when I wasn’t even ready to use the “m” word (marriage) and how quickly that feeling changed when I met Mark. I expect the same will be true for babies when the time is right! Thanks for your sweet words and well-wishes, MammaNene. I so appreciate it!

  30. Happy birthday dear bloggy friend!!!! I remember seeing your countdown to your birthday when the old blog theme was still up and I kept wondering “When will we get to wish Lauren Happy Birthday? Will she announce it, or will March go by and I’ll have to send a happy belated note?” Well needless to say I was super excited when I saw this come up on bloglovin’ today! I hope 30 is awesome! I’m approaching it myself this year (though not until the end of December), and I have been D-R-E-A-D-I-N-G it like you would not believe. Of course I have several friends who are already in their 30’s, but for some reason, for me, the end of my 20’s seems so sad. This is also coming from a girl who cried on her 20th birthday because I was getting so old and would never again be called a teenager. I have separation issues, maybe? Or maybe my 30-dread stems from the fact that my husband is a whopping 3 and a half years younger than me (though he would say it’s 4 years, of course!). Anyway, reading this post today made me feel pretty awesome about becoming 30 because you make it sound like it’s the bestest adventure ever! Not to make this comment all about me, of course…
    Seriously though, I hope you have a fantastic day and year and life! You’re a pretty rad girl and I like your style 😉

    1. Thalita, you’re one of those people who I feel like I’ve known forever, even thought it has only been a few months. You just have such an open heart…plus I like to think we’re kindred spirits. Plus, I don’t think I realized how close we were in age! And thanks for what you said about liking my style. Right back atcha, girlfriend.

      Oh yes, I had to announce the 30th birthday, although truth be told, I had a hard time writing this post. It actually was triple the length in draft form, but it was really rambly and all over the place, so I decided to just say a few things and let the people speak their wisdom to me in the comments. I guess I’m still formulating my thoughts on it all…but my overall feeling is one of excitement and anticipation.

      I can relate to what you wrote about dreading the end of your teenage years. I actually had a celebration with my friends my last night of being 19! We painted our faces all crazy, wore black, and traipsed around campus doing crazy theatre games. I didn’t want to yet say goodbye to my youth, and I thought a celebration like that would be a way to hold onto it. Little did I know that youth is a choice, not an age. And I still feel very much like the face-painted theatre nut from that night so many years ago. Let that be an encouragement to you as you approach 30. I have a hunch that you’re going to embrace your thirties with heart wide open. It’s just your style.

      1. You are so right about
        1. That we’re totally kindred spirits (Hello we are teacher-bloggers! Though I am an art teacher by trade, not theater…) and
        2. We’re ’83 babies! BAM!

        Love your story about your 20th birthday! I had a sleepover to prove I still could, even though I was no longer a teen! You are a TOTAL encouragement on several things, turning 30 now also included!

        Side note, you are amazing with replying to people’s comments!! Total hero!

        1. 1. That’s right! We’ve got the teacher connection. Art teacher and theatre teacher are definitely kindred careers.
          2. 1983 babies rock. Nuff said.
          3. And I get SUCH amazing comments from folks like you – – I can’t help but respond to them. It’s one of my favorite parts of blogging!

          Thanks for being such an affirmer, Thalita. I want to take your art class.

  31. Well first of all Happy 30th Birthday!!! This post will create much advice on the momentousness occasion so here are my two cents, I can honestly say without any hesitation I have greatly enjoyed my 30’s (although just 2.5 years in them) more than my 20’s. I feel like so many “things” happen in your twenties where you are trying to figure out life..you start out barely an adult, wrapping up college, maybe getting married, thinking about kids, buying a home etc etc etc.. For most, by the time we get our thirties, we’re more stable and can actually “enjoy” life rather trying to figure it all out. I also feel a renewed since about confidence about my well-being. No longer concerned with what people think of me, what I’m wearing, etc, I just live and enjoy my life doing the things that make me the happiest with my family. So far my thirties have been the time of my life..I hope its the same for you! Happiest of Birthdays to you Lauren!

    1. You’re right – – there’s so much to go through in your 20s in terms of transitions and major life events. Since we’ve moved to Florida, I have felt a wave of a new season coming on…a more settled season, and I’m ready for it! And it sounds like you’ve really come into your own in your thirties, and I’m looking forward to that! Thanks for your well wishes, Christina, and two cents. They’re worth WAY more than two cents to me.

      By the by, I was just thinking the other day how we need to plan a meet up soon. It’s crazy that you’re not so far from me and we still haven’t gotten together! Maybe at Maggie’s Cool Stuff? (Love the name of that place.)

  32. My thirties were way better than my twenties. In my twenties I basically was acting like I was in my forties already. I’ll be turning forty this year, I’m a tad nervous about turning the big four oh. Yet still I’m kind of excited about it too. In my thirties is when I seemed to finally figure out things and things seem to be clearer and fall in to place for me. I seem to have done things backwards in my life. (that’s what your 20s is usually for.) Well I hope you have a wonderful 30th birthday. May it be filled with joy and love.

    1. That seems to be what I’m hearing, Tracie. That the 30s can be a lot better than the 20s, which is exciting, because I had some great times in my 20s. And I’d like to think that the 40s are even better than 30s! That life, like fine wine, gets better with age.

      Thanks for the well wishes, friend. And I haven’t forgotten about your emails! Will get back to you soon.

  33. Happy birthday, Lauren!

    When I was little, I used to be scared about growing older (probably the fear of the unknown more than anything) and would have talks with my mother about getting older and it really put my fears aside. One thing that stuck out to me was that she said she never felt old and now that I’m “older” I completely agree! Having a kid now it amazes me how on some things we seem to be at the same level: we get equally giddy about cupcakes and have mornings where we both lament on how we’d rather just go shopping than to school or work 😛 I don’t dread growing older and delight in my experiences and am filled with gratitude for getting to celebrate another year here : ]

    Psst, I just noticed you’re watermarking your photos…have you had a change of heart? I just stopped watermarking mine in part because of your blogging series and the comments it received—some good points were made! Just curious : ]

    1. Jennifer, I loved the idea of you and Anak being on the same level. I think I know what you mean, because so often, in a crowd of adults and kids, I choose to hang out with the kids. They’re just so easy to connect with…and hold nothing back, which I really appreciate!

      Thanks for your birthday wishes! So thankful to have gotten to know so many fantastic women out there this past year through blogging…especially you!

      I know some people are against watermarking (and for good reason), but I do it not so much for protection from theft (because seriously, it would be easy to edit the watermark out), but to have a link to my blog if they ever get separated (i.e. through pins). And I’m set on keeping my blog title for the long haul, however long that may be…. But you’re right, folk have good reasons for not watermarking, as well! And I’m bound to change my mind later, ha ha.

  34. HAPPY BIRTHDAY LAUREN!!
    You are gonna love being in your 30’s. As 35 winks at me in the very near horizon, I have to say that as much fun as I had in my 20’s… my 30’s have been amazing. And I still struggle with certain aspects of my life that I thought would be different when I was the age that I am…but most of those are the version of myself that I had when I was a teenager, or like 22. But I am a very different person than I was then. I always feel that the point in our lives that we are at for a certain age, is exactly where we should be.

    So, enjoy. And that meme that you posted…it is 100% true. 🙂
    Kenley

    1. “As 35 winks at me in the very near horizon….” Wow, what a beautiful phrase! And yes, it’s funny that we have these ideas of what we’ll have figured out by a certain age or what troubles will be gone. And often, it’s not anything like we expected. Guess that’s part of what makes this life so interesting…it’s a mystery! And I couldn’t agree more about what you wrote, that at any age, we’re right where we should be. It’s true, it’s true, and I feel more than ever now that I’m wanting to live in the present. Not looking back or craning my neck to see what’s ahead. But enjoy the here and right now. There’s certainly an art to living in the present, isn’t there?

      Ha ha, and I’m glad to hear that meme isn’t only funny, but true! Thanks for your sweet comment, Kenley! You’re a dear.

  35. Lovely post, Lauren.

    HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!! And a 30th one at that!

    I celebrated my 30th birthday pregnant with my first child (I always said I wanted to have my first child around/before 30) – I got my wish!

    Now that I am 37, and ever-so-fast approaching 40, I’m starting to cringe at my age. I don’t feel 37, almost 40. It is funny that when you are a child, ages like 30, 40, etc… feel so far away and so, well, OLD!

    I hope you enjoy your day, year, decade,etc…, towards the slow march towards 40. 30 is when I first started feeling like a real adult, not some kid faking my way through life.

    1. Ha! I totally know what you mean about feeling like some kid faking her way through life. That’s totally how I felt when I got married and moved to Ohio at 26 and my students started calling me Mrs. Lanker. I felt like I was playing a new character…and in many ways, I was! So much of teaching is like theatre, I have learned. Fake it till ya make it is a phrase I often live by.

      Thanks for the sweet birthday wishes, Christine! They mean ever so much.

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