Quarter of a Century

I just celebrated my 25th Birthday. I am a quarter of a century old!

Because I got married so young, had kids so young, I have always felt a need to keep my age a secret. I desperately wanted to fit into the "Normal Wife and Mother" category, without being judged as immature, and young and careless and whatever else springs to mind. So I went on my Merry Mommy way, and avoided the "age" subject at most costs.

When we were in college we managed single- women apartments. Most of the girls/women were older than me. My boss and I agreed that age ought not to be discussed. One day, a girl brought it up- and I jokingly wouldn't tell her, knowing that she would think I was trying to hide my "Old age".  She looked at me and laughed, "Oh Jessi, I am sure you can't be over 30." She was right, I wasn't over 30. I was 19.

For my Christmas/ Birthday present this year, DJ sent me to the spa. I got a massage, a facial, a shampoo cut and style. It was a fabulous day, and sweet of him to know that Time for me was just what I needed. I loved that day and most of all,  I Love my new haircut! I wore it straight to church when we got back to GA, and a sweet chinese lady in our ward said to me, "Oh my gosh! You look so good! Seriously, you look like you are ten years younger!! ten years!!"

I thought, ten years younger? If I look ten years younger than my actual age, then I would look like I am 15. This clearly was not what she meant. I must have been looking OLD! (er than I am)

Since then I have realized that maybe in my trying too hard to fit into the "typical mother" category, I was creating something that didn't need to be. Maybe I have aged my appearance, the way others view me and the way I feel about myself, in doing so.  Why was it so important to me? I have no idea.

But no more!

I need to Embrace 25. I am young, and vibrant and will never be this way again!
I have been given a great life, and I am going to indulge in every delicious moment of it!

Heres to twenty five!!