I turned 30 back in November. I didn’t blog about it.
I had planned to write about it, similar to what I did for my 29th birthday, describing the changes of the previous year, both in my circumstances, and my emotional state. If there is one thing I am truly proud of myself for, it’s the growth I have gone through in 2008. I have become such an astoundingly different person I hardly recognize myself. I’ve had to face a lot of hard truths in the last year, about my life, my marriage, myself. There was so much I wanted to share about turning 30, and I nearly did.
What stopped me was a gift. The most incredible, amazing gift. For my 30th birthday, someone very special gave me a round trip ticket to Ireland.
It seemed so crazy at first. I’m going through a divorce. My ex is fighting me for custody. I’m terrified of flying. I’ve only traveled out of the country once in my life, and that was to a resort in Cancun, which is just the McDonald’s version of Mexico. Did I mention I’m terrified of flying??
Yet for all the reasons why I shouldn’t go, there were just as many why I should. The week in question, my kids were going to be in Orlando with my ex for the annual week-long vacation to Disney. They wouldn’t be sitting home pining for my return, and suddenly sitting home alone myself that week seemed a bit silly. I kept telling myself it would look bad to take off out of the country for a week, but why? I’ve already admitted things under oath that I have done, and been accused of others I haven’t, and at the end of the day this wouldn’t bring anything new into the proceedings. The only thing that could stop me was my own fear. I could jump on this opportunity, or I could let worry and concern over what others might think continue to rule my life.
In the end I made my choice, and it was the best decision I have ever made.
I could tell you what it was like to immerse myself in another culture. I could tell you about the people I met, the things I did, and the relationships formed that will be a huge influence in my life over the coming years.
I promise one day I will.
For now I’ll say this- I have been born, I have grown up, and I have given birth three times over, but it took turning 30 before I finally learned to live.
I am so excited for you–what a great experience! I just turned 31 in October and I’m still working on learning to live.
Turning 30 looms so large for women…trust me… the 30’s are the best decade so far….
Happy Birthday!
Wow, what an awesome gift! I’m so happy for you that you went.
We took a vacation “between kids” to Ireland, and it was the most awesome experience I’ve had since, well, the kids. I look forward to hearing more about your journey.
Hey — yay you! Glad you had fun. You deserve some fun, mamas.
Oh Sara, I have been so absent lately, but please know that I ALWAYS look forward to your updates. I am glad you had such a fabulous time, and I am looking forward to hearing about your upcoming adventures. I may be horrible about picking up the phone and actually dialing right now, but I always answer *hint* *hint*
Funny. I was listening to Pink’s song “So What” while I was reading this and it was SOOO fitting! I can’t tell you how happy I am for you! I’m beaming ear to ear – so glad to read that you’re taking charge of your life and starting over with a refreshed outlook on life. YOU DESERVE IT!
You’re an amazing woman and I wish you nothing but the best!!
How exciting. I’m so glad that you’re getting a chance to really live now.
What an amazing opportunity; I am so glad you took it!
It sounds like a wonderful experience. I dreaded turning 30, but honestly – I’ve never felt more myself than in my 30’s.
Good for you! I can’t wait to hear all about it!
Oh, man. How awesome. Good for you for going and happy belated birthday!
That is incredible! Happy belated birthday.
Welcome to the world!
I love Ireland… It’s so beautiful, the people are friendly… it’s a wonderful place to find yourself and learn to live!
Happy Belated Birthday and I hope 2009 brings you joy beyond your imagination!