What being thirty-something really feels like.

Today I turn 31. That's the big 3.0. + 52 more weeks and I can say honestly that I'm okay with it. I had the big 'OMG I'm 30!' freak out moment last year and it ended up being the best year of my life (hello sweet baby girl Draper). So I've shifted my mindset. I look back at my twenties with a huge smile because man was it ever fun but I wouldn't trade where I am to go back there. I can honestly say I absolutely love being a thirty-something.

I guess when you think about it, your twenties are a period of self-discovery and figuring out who you are, which can be confusing and messy and frustrating. But your thirties are about settling into yourself, appreciating who you are and finding out what feeds your soul and nurturing that.

So to all you almost-thirty-somethings out there that are questioning their life and afraid of the next decade, do yourself a favour and throw out your timelines and 'to do' list. You are not supposed to have it all figured out. Take it from a freshly post-thirty, this is what being 30-something really feels like...

1. Less Bullshit.

You will realize that you don't have time for brutal small talk or pleasing people you barely know. You've adopted an 'Ain't nobody got time for that' philosophy on life. You've found your backbone, you know what you like and what you don't like. You truly understand the importance of good, positive people in your life and don't waste time or energy dealing with unnecessary bullshit (people or situations).

"I’m a 30-year-old woman, I know what I want. Now get out of my way."

2. Your body is changing and that's okay.

Yes your full-pieced body is soft, imprinted with stretch marks and utterly not what it use to be. If you've had a kid then sorry ladies it's even worse. My boobs sag, I have 'smile circles' around my eyes and my pre maternity pants still don't fit. But I wouldn't trade this skin for the world. I've learned to embrace my body and all it's amazingness. You will too. After all it's the only one you've got so stop waisting time analyzing every imperfection and be proud of it. It has gotten you this far. :)

3. Sex is better.

Women hit a sexual peak in their early 30s. Yup thats right you heard me! Women in their 30s tend to have a higher sex drive, better sex and more orgasms than other previous time in their life. But better yet, by the time you turn 30 you know your body. You've learned what feels good and are not afraid to tell your partner exactly how you like it. Disclaimer: once you have a child don't be alarmed if your sex drive isn't what it use to be. You're goddamn tired, you've given yourself to your child all day long so by the time your partner comes home it's normal to not be in the mood. Let's hope this doesn't last forever.

4. Dinner parties are a thing.

Once you hit 30, dinner parties will become a thing and it's glorious. You get together with people you like (like really like), drink good wine (not that shitty cheap boxed wine) and cook good food like one big curry and everyone sits around and catches up. The best part is you can actually hear the people you've chosen to be with unlike the good old clubbin days.

5. You enjoy your own company.

In your 30s, you really begin to appreciate who you are and enjoy spending time with yourself. This skill is key to your happiness. You actually enjoy a quiet night reading a book, having a bath and even going to the movies alone. Ladies - you can say goodbye to FOMO. You know what you're missing out on and your quite comfortable focusing on yourself instead.

6. You have a newfound relationship with your parents.

If you're anything like me you've always been close to your parents. After all they've supported you through all the ups and downs of your twenties. But soon you'll start to see them more as equals. As friends. They are like your cool older wiser friends who you'll go to for advice and guidance. I hang out with my parents not because I have to but because I want to. And especially since having a daughter of my own, I see my mom in a whole new light and appreciate her more than I ever have before.

7. You're on your own path

It’s easy, especially as women, to look around and compare yourself to others and where they are in their lives and feel that you’re lacking somehow (as women, we always find a way to feel that way!), but that will get you nowhere. I’ve found that since I turned 30, I’m more confident and secure in where I am in my life. I'm on my own journey and loving it. I'm done with comparing myself with others on Facebook and I've learnt to find peace and be happy with me. Yes, there are still so many things I want to accomplish but I know I'll get there on my own time.

So today I am choosing to embrace turning one year older. 31. I am spending the day with Draper and then I am going to enjoy a beautiful night out with my hubby. I know this year will come with its own set of challenges and rewards but I'm excited for it all. So bring on 31! I am so ready for you.

xo

LDT

And just for fun, here are some pics of my 30th birthday last ear in Palm Spring. It was a birthday trip + Babymoom. It still amazes me how much can change in a year.

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