I officially entered my mid-thirties yesterday, and as with most things that I build up in my head, it doesn’t feel like that big of a deal now that I’m actually here. So, here are some thoughts about hitting this kinda-sorta-milestone birthday — plus a few random ones about life trajectories and getting older in general. Also, the business turns 6 this year, so I guess I technically have a kindergartner now.
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Man, I really missed the window on making it onto the Forbes 30 Under 30 list.
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It’s crazy how most pro athletes in their 30s are considered old and/or past their prime.
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On the other hand, I recently hurt my thumb a bit because I grazed it while stepping into my shoe a little too emphatically.
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How old is too old to wear crop tops?
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And what is this wrinkle on my lip??? (Apparently, 35 is when I start seeing the consequences of sleeping with my face mushed too aggressively into my pillow.)
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Also, like, do I just… keep getting more tired?
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My dad once said that caffeine doesn’t actually make you less sleepy, it just makes your sleep worse. I finally understand what he means.
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But will I cut back on my coffee consumption? It’s gonna be a no from me, dog.
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Oh god, the first season of American Idol aired over two decades ago.
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Oh god, two decades ago I was already fifteen?!
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I thought I was going to be a professional pianist back then, lol.
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A lot has changed since then, including what I wanted my career to be — librarian, magazine editor, art historian, etc.
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Of COURSE, small business owner was never on the list.
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But I have managed to fulfill a few lifelong dreams along the way — like using those giant ribbon-cutting scissors! And finally being able to put together a home library (because I married someone who hoards collects as many books as I do).
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Maybe this will be the year I achieve the biggest goal of all — having a library ladder in my home.
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That does mean I’d have to figure out how to anchor things to my walls, though…
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It also means I’d have to own my own walls…
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Well, I’m not ready for that just yet, but at least I’ve finally invested in a wick trimmer.
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20-something Amy would scoff at spending money on something so “unnecessary,” but honestly? Total game changer.
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Besides, 20-something Amy never wore SPF or supportive shoes, so can we really trust her opinion?
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When did I go from feeling youthful to complaining about “The Youths” à la Schmidt from New Girl?
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Maybe it’s when I started experiencing trends the second time around.
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I guess straight-leg jeans aren’t so bad, though.
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It’s also cool how much more I know my own taste now. See a trend that piques my interest? Great, I’ll try it. Otherwise? Not for me, thanks. On to the next!
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Same goes for the business. No more SHOULDS! What a relief to finally lean into trusting my gut.
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I should probably treat my literal gut to a few more veggies, though.
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And I should stop shopping in the juniors department, if only so my shirts stop losing their shape after a couple of washes.
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While we’re at it, I also should probably wear my glasses more often even though I “don’t technically need them” a lot of the time.
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Okay, so some SHOULDS can stay — you know, if they’re more “for my own good” than a gut-check, “how do I feel about this?” type of thing.
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Speaking of gut-checks, my life would lookso different if I’d gone through with moving to London for that medieval literature Master’s program…
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Who’s to say where I’d be — but I’m so happy my path has led me to where I am now.
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I am exactly where I need to be in this moment.
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And I can't wait to see where I go from here.
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I'm finally learning that being content with where I am AND continuing to put in work towards my goals are two things that can coexist.
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Thirty-five is gonna be good.
