Monday, June 13, 2011

I'm even managing not to have a third-life crisis

When my birthday is approaching I tend to think big. I dream of having my own sewing machine, receiving a gorgeous new necklace, or being surprised with a mint green cruiser. I picture myself cruising around the neighborhood on said bike, my hair blowing behind me, showing the world that 30 is still young.

{feel free to roll your eyes.}

But once the day actually comes (it's here! I'm 30 today!), I find myself far more content, and my dream wish list sort of just disintegrates. I'm happy to sleep in, nurse the baby in bed, and welcome the older two boys--pajama-clad and bed-hedded--to join our snuggle when they come downstairs. I'm content to work on laundry and wipe counters and plan a park outing. (And break up fights and clean up spills and wipe away tears.) I'm thrilled to have a mellow day to just marinate in my life.

Seven years ago this month I completed my eighteen month stint as a Mormon missionary. I came home, started dating my best friend, and got engaged within six weeks. I remember one night, after returning home from a date with Taylor, I burst into tears, picked up the phone, and dialed his number. It went to voice mail. After the beep I blurted out, in between sobs, "I just want to say that I'm so happy! All I ever wanted to do in my whole life was be a missionary and marry Taylor Cropper! I can't believe I got what I wanted! I am so grateful!"

And it just keeps getting better and better.

Who needs a wish list?




Not me.

xoxo,
anne

13 comments:

jeanine said...

Happy Birthday Anne!

chris said...

Hooray for contentment, sweet boys to love (all four of them!),and June birthdays. Mine is coming up in two weeks, too. :)

Dani said...

30 is the best!

Unknown said...

Happy Birthday! Love that story...glad you're content,but I sure hope those boys get you some of that wish list!

Kate said...

I remember the days when all you wanted to do was marry Taylor. you lucky girl!

Happy birthday my friend!

Christina said...

Happy birthday, Anne. I'll be 29 tomorrow and have that some contentment as I think about where I am. I love reading your sweet sentiments on your life. Hope your day is filled with fun!

Anonymous said...

I turned 29 on June 8th :) Thank you for making 30 seem full of thankfulness and contentment. Happy birthday!

Sarah said...

Aw, so sweet. It's true, life is blessed.

I'm turning the 3-0 on Friday! Hooray.

LC (+1) said...

Happy Birthday Anne dear! I have loved watching your dreams unfold. You and Taylor (& boys) are so perfect. Love you lots.

Barb said...

Happy birthday! Your family is so beautiful!

Steph at ModernParentsMessyKids.com said...

happy birthday - welcome to the 3-0 club :)

Joan said...

Oh dear me!?! I am SICK that I missed your birthday, dear Anne! I hope it was a happy, blessed one. I love you SO!

Heather said...

Happy Birthday! Hope it was a wonderful day. I love this. Just love it.