I’ve wanted to say that ever since 13 Going On 30 came out.

Well, I am officially 30. I no longer fall into the “under 30 group” or the “in their twenties” group. I am bona fide grown up now. You know how people make those “30 things to do before you’re 30” lists? I didn’t have one. But I think I like the idea of a “30 things to do while you’re 30” list. I’ll get on that.

Okay, enough rambling about turning 30.. I guess I’m writing so I can process life. I recently got home from the most amazing trip of my life. I went to New Zealand, by myself, for 20 days (minus 2 of those days in Australia and a day that got lost over the Pacific). I don’t really know how to begin to describe what that trip did for me. Now, I’m back in America and everything seems a bit duller. Don’t get me wrong, I am very thankful for my life and everything, but I think I left a part of myself back in New Zealand.

I took a Lord of the Rings tour. I know that makes me a huge nerd, but I do not regret it one bit. The scenery was incredible, the people were amazing, and I walked away with 32 new friends who were a part of my “Fellowship”. If you’re thinking of going to New Zealand, I cannot recommend Red Carpet Tours enough.

Life has a funny way of not turning out how you planned. I used to think that 30 was when you should be “settled down” with a husband and a couple of kids. While that actually is the case in most of my old friends’ lives, mine couldn’t be farther from the norm, and I love it. I get to see the world. I get to spend my money on myself and just enjoy my life. I have a cat, and she is enough for me.

So, if you’re like me, turning 30 and surrounded by couples and babies, don’t fret. Life is good. Find joy in the small things (and the big ones).

Here’s to 30!