I'm going to throw MYSELF a party.

My birthday is one week from today.  Yeah, I'm getting to the age where every time I think about how old I am I almost don't want to think about it.

I think by this age most people are married, have their college diploma in whatever career they are currently a year or so into.. They've had their fun.  They got to do the young thing...But me? That wasn't really something I had time for.  I was busy raising a baby.  I got pregnant at 16 and had to quit school.. we won't say why... no you know what? You should know!  I didn't finish school because I was told I'd have to hire a tutor and get myself through, and since I was 16 and didn't have any money, well that wasn't going to happen.  So I quit and got my GED. Everyone's always saying it's the same thing, but let me point out why it's NOT.

A.  I didn't get to go to my prom
B.  I didn't get to graduate with my classmates
C.  I didn't get to go on the Senior trip
D.  I have to go back to school if I ever want to go to college because of missing credits.
And E.  It's not the same because it's not the same.

It was pretty horrible watching my friends graduate without me.  A memory that has been stolen from me, if you ask my opinion.  And its still a sore subject.  But what can I do about it now? Nothing.  So move on.

I'm going to be 31 next week.  I will be 31 with a 13 year old.  And just what have I accomplished?  If you go by the worlds standards then not much.  I have had the same job for almost 8 years, but that's really only one small accomplishment according to the world.

But to me?  This age feels like a badge of honor.  I've survived some pretty stormy seas, and now I can look back and say with confidence that I have accomplished a lot.  I'm able to live on my own.. I'm still a little bit weak kneed about it, but heck, nowadays who isn't??  I love my job, I love my friends and family, I love my church, I love that I have a car and the freedom to drive where I need to go.  I love a lot about my life.  Sure there are things I wish I could change, but for the most part I'm pretty happy with what I have, and feeling that way at 31?  I think that's an accomplishment.

I never got a party for my 30th.  I was pretty excited about turning 30, and no one recognized it by throwing me a party and buying me cake.  It's ok.  I'll forgive you all.  But you should know, I'm throwing MYSELF a party, and you're not invited.  ;)