The Big 2 - 5

Yesterday I turned 25. Thinking back, 25 always seemed so far away. After all, it is the reference point for an entire decade. Think about it. At 25, "early 20's" turns into "middle to late 20's" as if there is no difference between 25 and the last day of 29.

While I know life is just beginning and there are many more adventures in store for me, I thought this would be the perfect time to reflect on some of what the past 24 years and 1 day held for me:

Age
4 - first boyfriend... both of them. it was over when they figured it out.

4/5/6 - named Little Miss Kansas, starred in commercials for ice cream shops

6 - Over the Rainbow (pageant) created category and named me first winner: Friendship Award

7 - first detention for working ahead in class and stealing a chair

14 - first "real" boyfriend, first kiss

15 - first bad softball injury, first knee surgery, first job, first car (all connected)

17 - first overseas trip (russia), first real heartbreak, accepted to Ottawa University

18 - graduated high school and left home for Ottawa

21 - graduated with 4 year degree in 3 years, named co-captain and 'most inspirational player' for OU softball, first real job

22 - met the man who will forever change my life for the better, Jeff

23 - accepted into graduate school, began my Master's education

25 - well, so far today i managed to get out of bed and spend time with the people i love. i am lucky, and there is so much more to look forward to.


i want to thank everyone who made my day special:

for my parents, who drove from spearville to make sure my day was perfect

for tony, april, john, jaye, and jeff who surprised me with dinner, cake, and presents

for jeff, who continues to be the love of my life and the one who inspires me

for those who kept me in their thoughts, called, and wrote

i am grateful for all of you.