Entering a 3rd Decade

Today is my boyfriend’s 30th birthday!  (Actually, he’s my hubbie, but he’s still my boyfriend—and I still like it when he dates me.  Ya know?  Just in case you were wondering…)

Since we basically celebrated his birthday one day early, I mentioned that yesterday was his last day to live it up in his twenties, which brought about some reminiscing about the best aspects of being in one’s twenties and the exciting—although somewhat daunting—move into one’s thirties.  The twenties are full of adventure—college, career, new locations, marriage, possibly kiddos…LOTS of change in a short amount of time.  The thirties feel a tad more serious—like you’re really an adult making more permanent decisions.  For us, this season involves welcoming a baby into our family—although not for six more months—which is a huge change in itself.  Clearly there was need for a celebration!  Hence, Matt’s 30th birthday bash! 

While we didn’t go too crazy, we did invite some close friends to join us for snacks, desserts, and games (Matt loves himself a good strategy game and I love myself a new recipe).  We grazed on southwest veggie eggrolls, chips and salsa, fresh strawberries and pineapple, pretzel turtle bites, and a divine triple layer chocolate ganache cake (a huge thanks to my mom for the recipe!).  And yes, this was my first time making a layer cake, which went surprising better than I originally envisioned—but I was still very thankful for the frosting, which covered a multitude of sins. 

Did you notice the cake stands?!  My heart still pitter patters when I think of them nestled away.  I've been searching for this style of cake stand for over a year, and I finally found them at Homegoods, of course!  I bought two different sizes so I can stack them.  Since I didn’t have an official “cake stand” budget, I dipped into our grocery envelope…which means that I really love those stands, because we’ll likely be eating rice and beans at the end of this month.  But occasionally it’s worth it, especially when you’ve been searching high and low for just the right piece.   While I was at it, I snagged a bunch of silvery candle holders on super clearance at Target.  Please tell me I’m not the only one who is overly fond of serving dishes and sales!

After praying blessings over Matt upon this new season of his life, the guys got serious about their games, and the girls chatted about…you know, whatever it is that girls chat about.  e.v.e.r.y.t.h.i.n.g.  The hubs even received some fun gifts in multiples of thirty.  Like 30 ounces of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, 30 Reese’s Cups, 30 Tootsie Pop suckers, and a frisbee to be used for 30 games of ultimate frisbee/frisbee golf—in which the giver hopes that he beats Matt at least 30 times.  Haha!  What fun. 

There really is nothing better than being surrounded by close friends and family during those significant milestones in your life.  We’re thankful that we have a home in which to share those memories.  After all, what is the point of living in a special space if you keep it all to yourself? 

What are your thoughts on turning 30?  Favorite moments from your twenties?  Bits of wisdom for the future?  We’re listening!