Mindful 35

Last week, I turned thirty five years old, and I think this birthday hit me harder than my 30th. Looking back at 30, I was pregnant with Siella, so grateful to be pregnant with our second child, not looking for a huge celebration. In fact, I’m never into big to-dos for my birthday, as I prefer just being with my family. My birthday month is shared with three of my closest friends, and we typically plan a night out, but this year, we happened to be in Disney. Never in a million years did I think that I would spend my 35th with Mickey Mouse, but I have to say, it was pretty amazing. I was surrounded by my husband and three children, and I couldn’t have asked for anything more. Well, maybe a beach but I’ll take it anyway. As I look back at my many milestones, I realize that now at 35, my heart has never been fuller.

When it comes to family, this is something that I have grown to cherish. Not for one day do I take for granted how blessed I am to have beautiful, healthy children. At ages 2, 4, and 7, these little souls have taught me so much about life, love, and myself. The true meaning of unconditional love. Jason and I have been married for almost nine years, and I still get butterflies sometimes when he walks into a room. My mom, dad, sister, and brother and I have never been closer. Days spent with them are always something we all look forward to.

When it comes to my friends, I so grateful to have each and every one of them in my life. The ones that go out of their way for you, will never forget your birthday, and no matter how much time has passed, we can just pick up where we left off, as if we had seen each other yesterday.

When it comes to NYC, it’s now fifteen years, and three apartments, but I am still in the heart of it. It’s always been a dream of mine to live here, and I am proud to be able to raise my children in the city. Our apartment may be small, and the sleep situation is not ideal, but I wouldn’t change it for the world. When I compare my childhood, to how we are raising my children, I’m happy they are being exposed to so much each and every day. NYC has taught be a lot about myself. I’m a tougher, and more outgoing person because of it.

When it comes to work, past and present, I’ve always been a super hard worker, sort of a hustler, and I always have a vision. I adored my fashion background, and it’s been so nice to be able to incorporate my past life into my current life. Granted I am working way harder than when I owned a showroom. It’s either time I hire an assistant, or simply take a step back, and slow down. I am convinced that the whirlwind of my job makes the days, the weeks, and the years go by much faster than I ever imagined.

And then, of course, there’s me. I could probably benefit from taking better care of myself. I seem to never have time, as my schedule is usually tripled booked. But now, halfway to 70 (I can’t believe I just said that), it is time that I start putting myself first, well sometimes. No more delayed checkups, and no more skipped workouts. I have been trying to get to Soul Cycle or yoga twice a week, but my body really needs more. I’ve been building up since January, and I hoping to make it three to four days a week soon.

Yep, the clock keeps ticking. Sure, I have lots of questions and thoughts that I have have gone unanswered, and theres always room for improvement, but I can honestly say, when I eventually make the time to sit and reflect, I know this is one lucky thirty five year old, and I truly appreciate you all being on this ride with me. Life is pretty darn good.