This is 37.

I have lived for 13,505 days… 13,505 new starts, chances, and opportunities. Yada yada yada.

So, I set out to write a deep, thoughtful, reflective blog about the power of turning 37 and while there’s definitely something powerful about turning another year older, I’m just basically here to say, “I made it.”

So hello there, it’s nice to meet you 37.

Far from sweet 16, not as exciting as 21, and now I’m closer to 40 and fabulous than dirty 30… but — queue Fantasia in The Color Purple on Broadway — I’m HERE!

This past year has been a year of accomplishment and disappointment, a true test of the past 36 years worth of lessons and wisdom gained. I’ve probably prayed more this year than any other year. I’ve learned so much more. I’ve conquered unexpected mountains.

For me, that’s being 37. Settling into “adulting.” The kind of settling in that feels like chillin’ in my sweats with no makeup on. THAT level of comfortability. Comfortable with who I am. Knowing that I am not ever done growing, however, I have bloomed. This is the age that I wish every young girl could know will come, where so many things will make sense.

Thirty-seven also means that I can hit the Shiggy Challenge but my beauty routine includes wrinkle serums and firming creams. I listen to podcasts more than I do latest releases, and when all else fails The Hamilton soundtrack is my go-to. I’ve officially hit the age where I question “what are these kids listening to?” but I can still dip it low, okayyyyy! I have come to terms with the fact that I am an introvert and not a morning person. It’s been 37 whole years and I have never been a morning person. I will most likely never be a morning person. Last year I tried Brussel sprouts for the first time and I actually like them. I have no intention of ever going vegan or online dating, however, skydiving and a solo international vacation are still on my bucket list.

I’ve settled into who I am in many ways and equally look forward to growing in others. Nothing earth-shattering, no ah-ha moment, just a reminder that this day is always an intersection of time to respect the past and embrace the future.