I wanted to do something super special for my 30th birthday, sooooo like any other adult I had a birthday photo shoot. I wanted it to be playful and childish with some grown-up fun. Enjoy the photos!! Also, in the spirit of blogging, here’s a list of 30 things I learned before turning 30! I’m not good at implementing them all in my life just yet, but I have learned these things and hope to keep on growing in the decade to come!

1. We are not what’s been done to us. We are what we’ve overcome
2. Forgiving yourself is the first step to healing in life.
3. Not all rules are meant to be followed.
4. You won’t like everyone you meet.
5. And everyone you meet won’t like you.
6. It’s okay to be a little weird.
7. Show up in spaces the way that makes you feel the most comfortable.
8. Rainy Days, Harry Potter, Dog snuggles, and Chai Tea can cure anything.
9. Travel often.
10. Cherish the little moments.
11. Summers are made for concerts.
12. Grow where the sun shines on you most.
13. Failure is not the end and perfectionism kills.
14. Eating well doesn’t mean you have to eat kale.
15. Life is filled with music inviting you to dance.
16. You don’t need all your teeth to smile.
17. When you are about to give up, push just a little further.
18. Self-care isn’t just bubble baths and candles.
19. Jealousy is real and ugly.
20. Don’t be so hard on yourself.
21. Realize things change and sometimes you have to and sometimes you don’t.
22. I’m the only one of me, baby that’s the fun of me.
23. You don’t always have to be on time.
24. Don’t be afraid to splurge on yourself.
25. Carve out time to get your hands dirty.
26. Know what you want and don’t be afraid to ask for it.
27. TRY NEW THINGS. TAKE RISKS.
28. Love isn’t like the movies, but totally worth it.
29. Always apologize when you hurt someone.
30. Even if you move, Home is always Home.

Guys, moral of the story, BE YOU. BE YOUR AWESOME SELF!! Here’s to a new decade!