Goodbye to 26

Another year has past and I'm reflecting on just what 26 was like. What it brought me, what I lost, what I gained, and who I am walking into 27.

As I get older, the years seem to move a lot faster. I read once that our concept of time changes as we grow. The thought being that a year to a six year old is a long time because they have only had a couple of years that they lived, let alone even remember. However, a 26 year old has more years for reference, and therefore our perspective on the measurement of time changes, just as many things do as we grow. Growth being the whole point. Regardless of how long or short this year has been...I feel different.

I am not sure where this year will take me. I know now that 25 was for learning and growing and strengthening. It won't be for another 364 days before I know what 26 was for but I will walk it nonetheless. -Me

Maybe it's not that I feel different but that I recognize (at least some of) the changes, in who I was a year ago compared to who I am now. A year ago I found myself in the depths, struggling to get above the waves of life that I felt were successfully drowning me. I'm thankful to say that 26 didn't feel so desperate. Not that 2020 was a walk in the park, by any means, but it brought out a different side in all of us, didn't it? Not only that, but more specifically to me, it brought about unique opportunities. I got a new job, we bought our first house, and of course, I had most of my experiences with My Mess. Its been 363 days since I reflected on what 25 was for, and now I can say with confidence that 26 was for change. Change in my life, change in the world we all live in, and change in myself.

I tried really hard to make myself more of a priority this year. I probably fell short in a lot of ways, but I have to say that I did better than I thought I was going to do. I'm not one to try the "name it and claim it" mentality, but I will say that all I can try and do for 27 is to try and be even better. I won't know what age 27 is for my journey until I reach the end of that chapter, but I cried out of desperation at the end of 25 and I am crying again at the end of 26- this time out of pure thankfulness. It doesn't really matter to me what 27 is for right now, because the journey is going to have its ups and downs no matter what. I'll gladly keep taking my single steps at a time when I need to and, who knows, maybe there will be a day where I can run- sprint even- but honestly, a peaceful walk is all I'm after.

Celebrating a birthday in 2020 is kind of surreal. This year has been a whirlwind to say the absolute, very least. Considering my birthday is at the end of December, most of you have already gone through this weird phase, so I'm a little late to the game, but I want to say thank you. Thank each and every one of you for the part you have played in my 26. I hope I can repay the kindness, in what ever part I play in your year.

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Thank you all for joining me for my birthday special! Today is my last day of 26 and I am very thankful that I get to spend it with all of you! Tomorrow might be my birthday but It also the final days count down to Christmas. I hope you all have wonderful holidays. Please keep your wellness in mind going into this week. I love you all and will see you next time! In the meantime though, stay safe and stay messy my loves!