I have a little secret:

I’m turning 35 tomorrow. 

In mind and spirit, I still feel like a 21 year old. In body, I feel like an 81 year old. I know this is really cliche, but I look back and think “Time has flown by.”

I know time will continue to fly too. This time of year always makes me super reflective of how I am spending my life and what I am and who I want to be.

I’ve learned so many lessons and have so many yet to learn. But for those of you ahead or behind me, I thought it would be interesting to share some of these lessons. I could have added more. Actually, I crossed out and edited a few billion times to get the main ideas here. Let me know what you think and what you would add to the list!

1. 1. Life is good, even when you think it isn’t.
2. 2. Practice the art of gratitude.
3. 3. Leaving God out of any equation can turn into a hot mess.
4. 4. Enjoy the learning process.
5. 5. Being kind is something you will never regret.
6. 6. Don’t always be available – disconnect!
7. 7. Value face to face relationships and cultivate quality friendships.
8. 8. Sometimes you just need more sleep.
9. 9. Use good manners.
10. 10. No one is as consistent as you think they should be. Including you.
11. 11. Sing. A lot.
12. 12. Don’t cheap out on your church.
13. 13. Live your life, not someone else’s.
14. 14. Study the Bible – don’t just read it.
15. 15. Dress nice. You will feel better and be more productive.
16. 16. Don’t do everything for your kids. Instead, teach them how.
17. 17. Learn to laugh at yourself.
18. 18. Listen more than you talk.
19. 19. Ask God to show you ways to bless others. Do it anonymously, if possible.
20. 20. Tithe, tip well, and be kind to waitstaff.
21. 21. Find board games you enjoy. They are out there.
22. 22. Have hobbies.
23. 23. When people do nice things, praise them.
24. 24. Keep explanations short.
25. 25. Go on dates with your husband.
26. 26. Own up when you have done wrong, Say “sorry” without excuses attached.
27. 27. Have reasonable expectations for your kids.
28. 28. Only do those things God wants you to. It’s okay to say no.
29. 29. If possible, always go to the funeral.
30. 30. Work hard.
31. 31. You usually get what you pay for.
32. 32. Your convictions are not for everyone.
33. 33. There is usually a backstory you know nothing about. Give grace.
34. 34. Emotions simply indicate feelings. Don’t let them control your decisions.
35. 35. Keep excuses for yourself to a minimum.