Happy birthday to me! My age officially starts with the number 3 as of today. It's really pretty hard to believe. I think most would agree, that I certainly don't look...oops, I mean, feel 30. Wasn't I just leaving my dorm room headed to class? Or picking out my wedding dress or something? Remember being 23 and thinking that 30 was old. Well, I have arrived. And with it has come some mixed emotions. Depending on the day you ask me, I'm either taking it really hard or doing really well. But I'm hoping to lean towards the latter. As my friend Emily and I agreed on the other day, 30 is just a perfect age for reflection and refinement. Pinkies up! So many things have happened in the last 10 years - I've been busy. And with all of those things comes the natural tendency to forget, or at least put on the back burner, all of the things I love to do. Instead of lamenting about how that happened, I'm challenging myself to do something about it.
First up, buy a camera. For anyone who has known me in the last 10 years, buying a camera has been on my to-do list. But it just seems that other things came up that needed to be paid for, and having a camera (at least the big expensive kind like I want) just wasn't practical. Well, I'm on my way. I might not have that envelope completely filled yet, but it's close. I've allowed myself to actually research the kind I want. And honestly, I don't even care if no one but me like the photographs I take. I just simply love photography.
Second up, take some classes. Since I started at Hearts at Home, I've been feeling more and more like I've let my skills slip. I keep seeing these people come in (interns, mostly) who know all of the stuff I used to know, but have forgotten out of sheer lack of use. So two weeks ago I started an InDesign class. And next week I've got an Intermediate Photoshop class. I'm loving it!
And last, writing. I really do love to write. I just never sit down to do it. That was the intention of this blog, but I've really been bad about staying on here. I come up with great ideas at about 10:30 at night and then they never come to fruition.
So here's to refinement - the kind that comes after you turn a big scary number and people start calling you "ma'am". Bring it on!
In other news, I had the most FABULOUS birthday celebration on Saturday. Gabe had been secretly planning a "Girls Day Out" for me with the help of some friends. It really was one of the best days I've ever had. Great friends, great food (seriously, better than I could have imagined), great conversation, and one great bracelet!
The girls: Jenny, Jen, Amie, Ruthie, me, and Sara (April met us later)
Kelly's for lunch where I had the most delectable salmon caesar salad and iced chai!
On to a dessert cooking class at The Garlic Press! Scones and chess pie. Yum!
After class we headed to a bead place, where after many hours and quite the drama later, I'm the only one who got my bracelet. But isn't it fabulous - I can't wait to wear it - if they ever call me to pick it up. :)
Greeted at home for dinner by this handsome waiter.
Our fully prepared gourmet meal awaits! 3 appetizers - shrimp cocktail, bruschetta and marinated cheese; Salad - spring mix with cucumbers and pomegranate seeds; Main course - herb crusted pork loin, garlic mashed potatoes, vegetable medley; dessert - butter cake with berries creme brule. I can't believe I forgot to take a picture before I devoured it!
Jen, Jenny and Sara 
Ruthie, April and Amie
Compliments to Chef Chad who prepared everything. It was the most glorious meal I could have imagined. Thank you, thank you, thank you! 
There's that cute waiter again. Thank you, honey, it was fantastic!
One last pic before the night ended - compliments to the party planner, Jen!
3 comments:
I didn't think 30 was old until I got to the place in your blog where you spelled my name with an IE!!! I bet the real JennIE is laughing in the library right now! Maybe 30 is the beginning of forgetfulness! JUST KIDDING!!!!
It was an amazing day. And I agree about doing the things we love. Didn't God create us with certain desires and talents? I should make my own list too! And when your camera is bought and paid for, you can take all the pics of my boys you want cause I know you have the eye and we will love them! ;)
I fixed it for you. I think I must have done that because I often call you "Jen" and keep her name "Jennie". Ugh! All you "jenny/jennies" in my life. It's a wonder I keep you straight! But of course, you're all wonderful!
That is soooo awesome! I am so jealous. :)
By the way, I wish I could take those classes with you!
And can I put my two cents in about a camera and taking pictures? Go Canon! :) "Stalk" photog blogs and steal ideas. Practice, practice, practice. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there! Good luck! I LOVE being a photographer!
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