Pearls of Wisdom

Sunday was my 29th birthday- yay me! I didn't have a party like I'd originally planned, but there is just entirely too much going on right now! No party is better than a half-baked attempt at a party.

My sis was teasing me about being old and asked what pearls of wisdom I could share with her thanks to my vast knowledge gained in my old age . . . did I mention she's a smart-ass?!

But maybe what I shared with her can be helpful to some other young 20-something. So, here are Stephanie's Tricks to Living Happy:

1. Don't rush through college in 3 years like I did. 4-6 years is perfectly acceptable. Just don't take 7-8 (for a 4 year degree) or then you're the creepy old person trying to hang out with young kids. There is no such thing as a real life Van Wilder, promise.

2. A "big girl" job isn't all its cracked up to be. Yes, its awesome to have a career and exciting to have an adult life at last, but I have three words for you- No Spring Break. No little mini breaks thrown in throughout the year. Vacation days are just not the same.

3. When you do finally get a "big girl" job, make it something that you love.

4. Live within your means. Credit cards can be your friend as long as you don't abuse them.

5. It's easier to stay in shape than it is to get back into shape. Just because you don't have to run 4 miles a day anymore doesn't mean you shouldn't. You'll regret it later when you promise a friend to run a 2K with her in a few months and you're still trying desperately to figure out how to run more than a mile without passing out . . . .

6. Tampon boxes are the best hiding places if there's something you don't want your boyfriend/husband to find. Most won't even go there, but if they do they'll have a tough time explaining why they were looking through your tampons in the first place.

7. Being a mommy is the hardest job in the world. But its also the best.

8. Being a working mommy is not easy. Those people that make it look super easy all the time are probably popping a few happy pills.

9. Surround yourself with people that you love and who love you. Let go of any friendships or relationships that are hurtful or bad. Those people are not worth your time or energy.

10. And most important of all- Trust and believe in God. Put your joys and concerns in His hands. I'm a worrier by nature and giving my problems to God is still something I struggle with everyday. But I'm working on it!

I have the following scripture in my office that I read whenever I find myself overwhelmed and it always helps:

"He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." Isaiah 40: 29-31

So there you have it! My tips to living a happy life. Pay particular attention to number 10 folks, I saved the best for last for a reason!

XOXO