30, Quirky and Jiving

So here I sit on the brink of my 30th.

Hard to really wrap my mind around it.

I don't know what it is about 30. I mean it's just another number right? And October 9, 2009, is a day like any other day, no?

But for me it's different. It's something I've been looking forward to and anticipating for awhile.

I've heard so many different reactions to turning 30. Some have embraced it and say they can't wait to start their 30s. Otherwise get really depressed about the age.

Me, I'm excited. I feel like this new decade I'm entering into will be great. I feel like the 20s was full of me trying to figure out who I am, and what I want to do with my life. It was me testing the waters and flitting about. But as I enter into my 30s I feel like I'm a bit more settled, a bit more mature, a bit more steady.

Don't get me wrong, I'm still flighty and immature in many ways, and I still have much to learn, but I look forward to the 30s feeling like it's going to be a decade when many major decisions will be behind me and I can just stabilize my life.

Of course, I really have no idea what will happen in the future. I can only hope and dream. =)

As I enter into this new decade, I want to take a few moments to thank God for the many, many blessings that he's bestowed on me over the past 30 years.

1. His LOVE, and GRACE.

Truly, knowing that God loves me is the best thing. Not only knowing, it but, truly understanding it. It has set me free. And his grace has gotten me out of more messes than I even know. So many times, I feel like, Man, I'm in deep doodoo, but he always saves me.

2. Linda

Linda has been such a stabilizing force in my life. She's my best friend, and my best helper and support. When I am exhausted from a long day, being with her recharges me. She is God's gift to me.

3. My parents

I haven't always appreciated my parents. But the older I get, the more I realize, just how blessed I am to have my mom and dad. They are full of wisdom and their love for God is so strong and evident. Also, I appreciate and am so thankful for their prayers over Linda and I. I firmly believe that those prayers have played a major part in leading me to where I am today. Also because of their faithfulness to the Lord, Linda and I are reaping the blessings.

4. My dear friends.

All of you are more like family to me than friends. I cherish each relationship I have with every one of you, and you all bless me in many different ways. Growing up I had a hard time connecting with people and making friends, but over the past few years, God has filled my cup to overflowing with so many good, loving, wonderful people in my life. I appreciate each of you more than I could ever express.

5. Gifts, talents and opportunities

I have had a full life. Not only a full life but a colorful life.

I have done more and experienced more in my 30 years than many people have done in a lifetime. I definitely credit that to following the Lord. Really friends, if you don't know already, committing your way to the Lord, allowing him to lead you and direct your paths, you will see and do more things that you could ever ask for or imagine, it's amazing.

6. Security

Having God in my life brings me a strong sense of security. I know that he loves me, and that he loves Linda, and that no matter what happens, as long as we're walking with him and living in his will, it will all work out for the good. I love being able to revel in the joy of knowing that even though things may not go as I plan, that I know HE'S got the perfect plan, so I can rejoice in that.

30 is going to be an amazing decade. I know. And I look forward to it with strong anticipation and joy.

LOVE YOU ALL!