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It’s My Birthday…Drum Roll Please!

It’s my birthday, drum roll please!  Cue the balloons, confetti, and have the parade ready to march down the street.  I mean, is this what I should expect to happen today? That the clouds will part and the sun’s rays will shine directly down on me to say, “HELLO WORLD! IT’S MY DAY!”?  No, today isn’t about all that hoopla.  It’s not about cake and presents and singing.  A birthday is a celebration, but, for me, being that my birthday is so close to New Year’s Day, it ends up colliding and melding into one big contemplative hangover.

Truth be told, I’ve actually been struggling with this birthday A LOT.  I actually feel quite embarrassed even writing about it.  While most women (especially those in the public eye) write about getting older in a positive light, stating that 30 is the new 20 and 40 is the new 30 blah blah blah, I am feeling a bit down in the damn dumps.  I’ve suddenly crossed over the hump of being in my mid thirties, inching much closer to 40.  While there is absolutely NOTHING wrong with this number, it represents a passing of time. It also represents a hard truth: I can no longer pretend not to be “adulting” anymore. And not only does this birthday represent a passing of time, it also represents my life and all its accomplishments.

In the last 37 years, I made my parents grandparents and I became the oldest of 4 siblings.  I transitioned from a city girl to a cowgirl.  I played in competitive soccer matches, watched my parents marriage fail, helped support my family through my sister’s traumatic brain injury, and created a family of my own.  I moved a minimum of 20 times, loved greatly, achieved my dream of attending and graduating NYU, learned to dance with my fear, created a career, married my best friend, became a mother, and showed up for my friends. I learned to ride a motorcycle, watched my grandmother struggle with dementia, witnessed a best friend lose a mother, scaled a mountain (or two), started a business, sucked at a home remodel, gave birth to three incredible humans (two of which were in my own home), found my voice…and not all in that order.  

When I think back on all of this, I don’t look at anything I’ve accomplished as a triumph or a failure. It’s just my life. It was the path taken, the path chosen, and also what was chosen for me.  And when I think back, I remember to be grateful for both the good and bad, because pain is a teacher, and the heartaches are just as valid as the highs.  So, as I move closer to 40 (a.k.a. “the new 30”), I realize that it is in fact just a number.  I realize that I’m the only one judging myself, and, in doing that, I’m the one with the ageism issues. These are MY insecurities, my feelings of inadequacy, and my inner demons projecting fear all over my incredibly blessed life.  So I’m taking responsibility, because I am the one in control of how I look at them.  While I learn to embrace this negative perspective, if I turn it on it’s head, I can also see the joy, the triumphs, the friendships, the pain, and the connections. I can simply lean into myself, and let this be a lesson in acceptance.

So, in honor of being 37, here are the things I would like to make a priority in my life:

Patience with myself and others.  A dear friend of mine used to love the saying “be kind to everyone you meet, for every soul is engaged in a great battle.”  I adore this quote because it’s so true.  We are all living out our own narrative and doing the best job that we can.  It’s important to remember this and be patient as we move forward.

Forgiveness to myself with no “buts” or contingencies.  It’s about forgiving and moving forward.  Period.

Less Competition.  This is a big one for me. I am a competitor by nature (still, at 37, I blame soccer), and a little competition can be healthy. However, competition can trigger underlying fears and thoughts that create negative emotions about ourselves and others. Releasing competition means enjoying more inner peace, love, joy and happiness in life.

More self love, less judgement which kind of goes along with forgiveness, but I would like to stop editing myself in fear of being judged.  

More courageousness and fearlessness, which for me means not being afraid to shoot from the hip and speak from the heart.

And with these ideas in mind, I would like to say Happy New Year, Happy Birthday to me, and love to you all. 

XO,

Gen

All Photography by Angela Doran

 
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156 Comments

  • Michelle Vizcarra

    Happy Birthday to you!… & Happy New Year to you and your lovely beautiful family.
    Just found you instagram I’m @chellvizz self employed still trying to figure out what I wanna be when I grow up..& I’m turning 51.. the new 41.. 😉 Congrats on your blog and Blessings for your journey. xoxo

  • Jess

    Happy Birthday Gen!!!! I hope you had and are still having a wonderful and fabulous day!! You have had quite an eventful and successful life! Many blessings and sad times are our lives. Goes in cycles; however, the good is much more than the bad. Our attitude is everything and really effects the outcome in many situations. Feeling grateful for the little things really helps me no matter what I’m feeling. You are a beautiful, strong woman, mother, daughter, friend and wife. You have a beautiful family and wonderful way of giving back through your site. I just turned 45 and I feel the ageism lol. I look back and wonder gosh where did the last decade go! You are way ahead of the game!!

    • Terri Oakley

      So beautifully said! We can’t control those valleys, but we can control how we go thru them. Thank you for sharing the personal side of you, ups and downs. Your willingness to show that makes you even more awesome! Happy Birthday and God bless!

    • Kiriaki

      Happy happy birthday beatyfull we love you!!! ???

    • Pamela Colon

      Hope your birthday was as amazing are you are.

    • Krystal

      You are such an inspiration. I just turned 36 on the 4th so i get it. I have also had a hard time. Just remember you are beautiful inside and out. You are also an awesome role model for all us moms. Happy Birthday sweetie

  • Luanda

    im crying omg i love you so much and im so proud of you and i love your family and i cant even breathe because of crying so bad

  • Kristen Nicole

    First I want to say, Happy Birthday Gen, I do hope it was a great one for you.. This post really hit me as I turned 30 on the 5th of January. In this last year so much has changed for me and I know more change is coming. You, Gen, have become a role model, an idol and an inspiration to me. Thank you and have a wonderful birthday. <3

  • Shauna

    Happy birthday Gen!? I hope you had a wonderful day. Keep on being amazing. Here’s to 2018❤️❤️

  • Ashton Kern

    happy birthday gen!! this was a beautiful post, i hope you had a lovely day and i’m wishing you and yours the best year possible !! xo

  • Paulette Gassman

    Happy birthday to you Gen. Thank you for sharing your thoughts, they’re beautiful. I wish you lots of love, inner peace, happiness and cake!

  • Angie

    Girl coming from someone who turned 38 two days ago… I hear ya!! I do not feel almost 40…. age is just a number! Have a great year! You’ll only be 37 once!!

  • Hailey-Mae

    Firstly I would like to wish you a happy birthday! Secondly I just want to say how much of a great person you are! You are one of my role models. I just wanted to thank you for being amazing! I hope you had an amazing birthday.

  • Lindsay

    Happy birthday Gen! ❤️? I absolutely adore you and watching your family grow… wishing you, Jared, and your beautiful children a happy new year! I can’t wait to see what this year holds for all of you 2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣8️⃣ ? ? ?

  • Kimothy

    Happy Birthday Gen!! ???

  • Teri

    Gen, the best of Birthdays! At the tender age of 58, l can understand your ageism. Be you! Be you with all of the past ,pain, hope, forgiveness, grace and love. You are right its your life, its what you choose it to be…so be fearless and bold!

  • Dani

    Love this! What a wonderful reminder going into this brand new year that perspective is dependent on attitude. Hope you had a fantastic birthday!

  • Shaista

    A very very happy birthday to the woman that inspires me the most, second only to my biological family and her husband, the angel who keeps my idol loved and grounded, the yummy mummy who has three little precious munchkins, an amazing birthday to my Wonder Woman, Genevieve Padalecki!!! I love you, ma’am! Keep smiling and blogging! Stay blessed forever!

    I absolutely love how open you are, how you’ve laid bare your heart, and how courageous you must be to show such honesty! You truly Inspire me to be the best woman I can be! I’m so proud of what you’ve achieved, ma’am! I pray to the Almighty to bless you beyond limits or restrictions, and shower you with loads of love, health, happiness, peace, bliss, success, fame, prosperity and contentment!! I love you so much!

  • Olivia Sullivan

    Awe my goodness this is so so so sweet! Love you girlie and happy birthday! I hope this year brings you new accomplishments,success,adventures and goals. Can’t wait to read more of your blog post❤️
    -Livi

  • Paige

    Happy birthday, Gen! Thanks for being such an inspiration and for sharing your life with us! ❤️

  • Kendra

    HAPPY BIRTHDAY GEN!!! I hope you had an amazing day and it continues throughout your life. Id just like you to know that you’re my role model! I strive to be you. You as a wife, a mother, and a woman in itself. You show me everyday that we can change the world for the better. You show me that yes as women we have hardships but also as humans. You show me that we can beat anything. You show me how to love unconditionally!! I love you, you Beautiful woman!! Keep being you and strive to live brighter! ~Kendra?

  • Pam

    Happy Birthday Gen! Love, love the priorities you listed. I very much want to apply it to my 2018. I’m right there with you regarding struggling with age, hitting 40 this year myself!

    Love this post and much love to you and yours! ❤️❤️❤️

  • Jessie Leialoha Gonsalves

    HAU’OLI LA HANAU GEN! Hope you had a blessed birthday. Thank you so much for sharing your blog. You are such an inspiration!
    Mahalo,
    From Big Island, HI

  • tamiris

    HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY SUNSHINE!!!! EU TE AMO!!!! BRAZIL LOVES YOU!!!! ???????

  • Jez

    Happy Birthday! You are so amazing and thank you for sharing this very inspiring perspective. Hope you have a wonderful day.

  • Maya

    Omg I love you and I love this.

  • Tresa Miser

    I turned 40 in November and your post hits very deep in my soul. I am a single mother with 2 amazing children but I am also a full time student pursuing a deegree in biology and forensic science molecular biology so I am surrounded by young beautiful people all day, everyday. It has been so hard but your words have empowered me to embrace my “number” and love me for me. Happy Birthday! Thanks for taking time to share!

  • Kamille McKay

    Happy birthday Gen! I hope it was amazing!
    And I hope to see you @ the opening of the family business brewery on Wednesday 🙂 -Kamille

  • Ashley

    Happy birthday Gen, I hope your birthday was as amazing and fabulous as you are! ? You’re an inspiration to so many people, your kids, Jared, your friends, and your fans such as myself. She is just a number, don’t let it get to you. You’ve achieved so much, and you’re so beautiful. Today is your day, and I hope you were pampered! ? So again, happy birthday, and happy 2018 to you. ❤️??

  • Irene Lopez

    Happy Birthday Gen! Hope you had a fantastic day. I have been a huge fan and now more than ever an even bigger one for opening up yourself to us and sharing your life.

  • Eilis

    HAPPY BIRTHDAY GEN!!! You are so inspiring and I hope you know that you are so incredibly loved by this family of people who support you. You have worked so hard and you continue to do so every day, and it is astonishing how much you have accomplished. I am so proud of you! I know you have your own struggles, as do we all, and I want to say THANK YOU for speaking up about them here, because it helps me realize that I am not alone in my struggles either, and that I should not be afraid to reach out and ask for help when I need it. You are a beautiful human being and I am so thankful to be able to have you as a role model in my life. I love you so much Gen, and have a wonderful birthday! I hope this year is filled with all the love, happiness, joy, adventure, and blessings that this world can give you! You truly deserve it!

  • Ashley

    Age** is just a number. This autocorrect, grrr! Lol.

  • Madison

    Gen, Happy Birthday, thanks for sharing this, you writing your blog and being personal, it’s so brave and insipring. Its helped me realize my own insecurities and problems and I’m working through them with a little help from you and some people that are close to my heart. It means a lot that you would share this and know that you have my support and so many others, Love Mads.

  • Shannon Hollifield

    Happy Birthday! As a women who is well on her way to being 50 I can sincerely relate to most of those points. 2017 was a rough year for my family so it’s getting the courage to dust my self off, forget self doubts & forge a new career path. My 40’s have given me more wisdom & the incredible ability to be more open in many cases, without caring about the opinions of others who have no baring on my life. I wish you luck in everything you persue, and continued happiness.

  • Nicki

    Happy birthday Gen! I hope your day was amazing and you have an amazing year!

  • Rai

    You have been an inspiration to me this past year. You have shown me what it looks like to be real. Natural beauty, patience, and a lightheartedness that is so rare these days; these are the things you share with the world and I am so grateful to you for opening your world to us. I learn so much from your posts and look forward to many more this new year. Happy birthday Gen.

  • Maddie

    “you are not anymore older on your birthday then any other day” birthdays sometimes Hit me hard and I have to remind myself of this fact. I am not now a whole year older I am simply a day older as I was the day before and the day before that.

  • Chelsea

    Gen I hope you had a wonderful birthday! I love this post because it’s so true. To forgive and love yourself should be easy but for some reason it isn’t. I hope you had a wonderful birthday with family and friends but most of all I wish you lots of luck with the above priorities. Thanks for sharing your struggles it means a lot.
    Chelsea ?

  • Maddie Duley

    Your posts are so beautiful and inspiring and such a lovely reminder of our flaws as humans-flaws that can be overcome. Your writing is so beautifully personal and inspires me to get over my fears of being judged and being being seen as weak or incappable because of my beliefs and virtues and how I need to strive to be more confident. Live every day to the fullest!
    Love,
    A struggling teen

  • Shannon

    For the last few years I’ve made it a goal to be proud of who I was at the end of each day. Am I always successful? No. But it’s important to try. Today I chose not to reply to a coworker’s snarky comments with my own snark. I decided it wasn’t worth how it makes me feel. It’s tough to be a grown-up, but I’ve learned it doesn’t mean I have to give up silliness, laughter or fun. In fact, I think in many ways I’m more immature now at 43 than I was at 13.

    You’re doing just fine, Gen. Be proud of yourself tonight.

  • Alesia Blake

    Thank you Gen. In my 58 almost 59 yrs. I have lost the love of my life, my mother, my sister, my brother, and my oldest child. From 2006 to 2015 I didnt think I would make it. But then something wonderful happened, I found Supernatural, and the spnfamily and then I found you and your Inspirations that you write about, and it made me realize that even someone who is beautiful, talented, in love, and mother. Can still struggle as well and do it with Grace and dignity. So thank you for helping this woman realize that we’re all just humans. I’m better now a lot of counseling helped. As well as my pet my little wiener dog. So happy birthday, and thank you for living your life as an inspiration at least to me.♡

  • Claudia

    Happy birthday Gen, after watching supernatural I discovered a great passion for the crew including yourself. You may not know me but I feel as if I know you so well and after reading all your blogs you have inspired me to do more and be more active. Thank you for everything and keep up the good work I hope to one day meet you xoxo I hope you enjoy you birthday today you deserve the best.

  • Marieann Vasquez

    Happy Birthday from a woman that just turned 40 Just wanted to tell you thank you for inspiring me to do a lot of good things and expiring me to do a lot of better things for me and my children I love all your websites I love all your tools I enjoy your tutorials your list I love everything about you. you’re a great mother a friend a great wife. I raised my children and i now have my very 1st grandchild and it is a new road for me Can I hope that you have a blessed day-to-day and night and being save and live for new and love for you and be there for you Family over anything.

  • Adina

    I’m really glad you had a Very Happy Birthday!!!

  • Amber

    This was so wonderful to read, thank you for sharing! You’re a beautiful soul Gen.

  • Cathy Dove

    Happy Birthday Gen!

  • Ana

    I am always amazed at your strength and self reflection. You are such an amazing role model for so many of us, and you are such a gift to this world. I hope you had the happiest of birthdays!!

  • Kelly Denton

    Happy Birthday sweet lady. PLEASE PLEASE don’t feel bad about growing up lol.. I understand where your coming from and oh how I wish I could just sit at a table and talk to you face to face but what your feeling right now will go away. It’s just a number,don’t let that define you and who you are. I’m 45 yrs old and I still wear my silly t-shirts and converse shoes out and about, my two sons think I’m crazy but that’s ok and my daughter says I look cute lol. Anyway, embrace this,take deep breaths,take day by day,min by min. Take in the good times,the laughters and when the bad times comes rather they include tears or not,embrace it but let it go,don’t stay there and just remember, your only human, it’s ok to feel what you feel, but when start feel self doubt,get out those silly t-shirts and put on your converse shoes, put the babies in the car seats and go for a walk, YOU GOT THIS

  • Shelly Shell

    Hi Gen..I’ll be 78 this year and ageism hits all the time. You’re 37 and you’ve accomplished much.Youre a loving wife, mother and daughter. You’re on a journey of a new career and make people happy as they travel along with you. Not many make that statement. Be proud to be a beautiful 37. You’ve earned every year. At almost 78 I’m more twice your age, a widow, married 46 years of ups and downs. I have 2 happily married children who gave us 5 awesome grandchildren but aren’t they all. As women, we do earn every year. Happy Birthday lovely lady.???

  • Karen Graham

    Happy birthday Gen. I love your optimism and your goals. I hope you’ve had a wonderful day! xoxo

  • Catherine

    Hello Gen,

    Happy Birthday and thank you for sharing those beautiful thoughts with us. It made me teary but in a good way because I’ve just realised all the unhappiness & stress I place on myself is caused by my own thoughts. This year I really want to learn to ‘love myself’ and stop being so harsh. I also worry about judgment a lot. I want to feel free and happy like I once did as a child (just with a whole lot more responsibilities) ?
    Blessings to you and your wonderful family. I hope you achieve your intentions this year and please keep writing ✍️

    Much love,
    Catherine from Australia 🙂

  • Amanda M.

    Happy birthday Gen! You inspire me as a mother, friend, wife, daughter… and most importantly a woman. Thank you for expressing yourself, the real you. I wish you a very happy birthday. Your beautiful!

  • Willow

    I just turned 36 and I’m right there with you! I could’ve written half of this myself. I’ve had a crazy-amazing-weird-interesting life but I want to create something different for the second half of my life. Way less judgment, way more allowance, and asking the Universe for my mega crazy dreams to show up.

    Birthday cheers!

  • Stephanie Strehlo

    You are very brave to post your insecurities, and that is something to be proud of! You are a very inspiring person and someone I look up to. You and Jared both are very intelligent and loving people! You make the world a better place. Keep doing you, and keep growing. That’s the only control we have, so do it with a smile and always for a good reason. Happy Birthday! ❤️❤️❤️

  • Emily

    Happy birthday, Gen! I think 36 was a hard birthday for me (aack! closer to 40 than 30!) so I can relate to some of what you are feeling. Adulting is not always easy, but I think there is a real power in knowing: “I am no longer a child; I am a woman, with wisdom, experience, and competence.” I also know it’s not always easy to remember and believe those things, and I can’t imagine opening up your life to public scrutiny makes it any easier! Please know that I, and many others, respect and appreciate your efforts to be real and genuine with us, to let us watch as you acknowledge some fears and insecurities and doubts but keep moving forward anyway. Best wishes for a wonderful year…and whatever it brings, I look forward to seeing/hearing/reading about it!

  • Trinity

    Happy birthday!!! I enjoyed reading this?

  • Katie Sterling

    Happy birthday! 🙂 The quote I live by…
    “How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you was*?” Satchel Paige
    Age is just a number.

  • Camille Gendron

    Happy Birthday!!!!! I love you so much Gen!!! You are so sweet and kind!!! Thank you so much for everything you and Jared have done! You and Jared have, and still are, helped me to keep fighting against my Turner syndrome, hearing problems, Crohn disease, hypertension, ADHD and plenty of other things! I am so grateful to you for that! Thank you is not even enough to tell you how much I am thankful to you! So you really deserve a great and awesome birthday! Happy birthday and cheers!???????

  • Cassandra Fortin

    I loved this post because you wrote it with your heart. I loved you as an actress and now, I really enjoy your blog. You are an amazing women and with your great mindset, the best is yet to come! XXX Happy birthday Gen! ?

  • Jaime

    Happy birthday, Gen! Getting older is something I’ve always struggled with so…I feel you & I admire your drive to make something positive out of these feelings! I’m going to remember that when my birthday arrives in march!

  • Rea Cupit

    This was such a beautiful post, Gen. I’m turning 32 next month, and I can already relate to so much you have written here (though I am definitely behind in a lot of categories, much to my chagrin 😉 ). Thank you for being so open and honest with us; you are already speaking your truths, and that truly inspires me in my own goals and life.

    I hope you have had a wonderful birthday, and that this year is even bigger and better for you than all the last. <3 <3 ^-^

  • Leyla

    First of all, I hope your bday was filled with joy and fun! We all deserve our day. I remember turning that corner past 35 and closer to forty. I became more preoccupied with the things I hadn’t accomplished then the things u had. Then it dawned on me, like I see it did to you, I have lived a full and rich life. I need to enjoy that. I decided that “being an adult” is all relative. You are who makes you happy and gives you the strength to be there for yours. So with all that, I wish you many blessings this year and those to come. The 40some club will be here to welcome you with open arms. ❤️

  • Trisha

    Happy Birthday Gen! I’m 37 too, and everything you said made so much sense to me. I hit a turning point about 15 years ago when my father was diagnosed with Parkinsons. But, thankfully he’s still with us. I have met friends who became family, I’m putting myself throughput college,which at 37, can be insane in so many ways. You are strong, graceful, and a role model for me. Hope your birthday was amazing.

  • May

    I’ve not been following you long. I didn’t know about you (apologies) until my son made me watch Supernatural. All of which I love. But as I’ve learned more about the cast- and their families I can say you are my favorite. ? I really appreciate the real ness you put forth, the genuiness and honesty you seem to have and the simplicity of life and love, that seems so evasive most of the time, you make it seem so attainable.
    I appreciate how you share so openly, that takes strength and courage many celebrities likely won’t muster.
    I hope you had an amazing birthday!

  • Nikki Shubert

    Bravo to you. Thank you for speaking your truth from your heart! I also turned 37 (this last November) and honestly can relate unequivocally! I’ve struggled so much throughout my life with pain, emotionally and physically. Sometimes it’s difficult to see the silver lining, especially when you begin to feel just how finite our time on earth is. I value your honesty, it helps me feel like I’m not alone! ? Here’s to peace, love and more personal growth! – Nikki S.

  • Melissa Dunn-Eversgerd

    Hi, Gen,

    I’m turning 46 on Saturday…So I certainly feel your pain regarding ageism and judgement and reflecting on one’s accomplishments. Its normal, inevitable. I do think that in the nine years I’ve got on you, I’m a little wiser than I was, a little more sure of myself. I hope. I appreciate hearing someone I view as having it all open up with real talk about insecurity and self-doubt. We’re all in this together. ❤

    Happy Birthday and make Jared take care of you during tomorrow’s hangover. I’ll drink one (or five) in your honor Saturday night. ???

  • Angela

    Happy Birthday! You are such an inspiration to me and so many others! I hope you have a wonderful day with your beautiful family!

  • Madeleine

    Happy Birthday Gen. Your post is so beautiful, so just !
    You’re a a gorgeous woman, wife and mommy. You can be proud of the woman you have been, of the woman you are and the one you will be. You are an example to follow, an example of success. You know what is good for you and your family. I admire you.
    Celebrate your birthday as it should.

  • Sam

    Happy birthday Gen ????
    Have a great day x

  • Cam Gendron

    A very very very Happy Birthday Gen!!! I love you so much Gen!!! You are so sweet and kind!!! Thank you so much for everything you and Jared have done! You and Jared have, and still are, helped me to keep fighting against my Turner syndrome, hearing problems, Crohn disease, hypertension, ADHD and plenty of other things! I am so grateful to you for that! Thank you is not even enough to tell you how much I am thankful to you! So you really deserve a great and awesome birthday! Happy birthday and cheers!???????

  • Heather

    Beautiful words and kudos to you for sharing with such honesty. As someone who stayed 44 until I turned 50 (my kids wouldnt let me pretend anymore) i know your pain and at times now that this year brings 55 and then 60 starts rearing its head I have to admit that i cant even wrap my head around that at all … at the moment I try not to think of myself as any age .. i just try to enjoy my life as it is until i learn to be brave and can acknowledge my age with pride.

  • Erin O'Connor

    Happy Birthday! This article that you have clearly written from deep within yourself has managed to make me feel better…I turned 37 on Jan. 7th and have so many of the same feelings about myself and my life. I have such a beautiful and blessed day to day but I have these inner issues with myself and I place such an incredible pressure to do more and to be more for my husband and my children that is placed there by me and I feel as though that makes me loose more time more quickly…
    My fear is that the older I get the more scared I get. Looking at my children and how quickly it all changes is terrifying.
    Thank you for your honesty, it has put into perspective that it’s not just me feeling this way…
    I plan on making some adjustments and embracing my day to day instead of always feeling like I didn’t do enough…and maybe just maybe start saying YES to more fun and experiences instead of feeling like life is just passing me by…
    Thank you again and Happy Birthday!
    P.S. your family is beautiful and you’re doing a great job!

  • CJ

    Happy birthday! What a lovely post. Life can be challenging, hard, heartbreaking, and immensely difficult, but it is also filled with love, learning, compassion, empathy, and successes. Every action we take teaches us new lessons, and provides us with opportunities to do good, show kindness, and live a well rounded life.

    My birthday wish for you is to have everything you put out into the world, your family and loved ones be returned to you in kind. Enjoy getting older, as every day is an opportunity to grow, both in experience and love. Hope your day is a good one. Sending happy vibes from down under. xx

  • Megan

    Happy Birthday Gen! What a great perspective on life so far. I admire you.

  • Sue

    Happy Birthday Genevieve. Hope you had a lovely day. ( How could you not with Jared around ?)
    (Ps. I believe I said “Gen” on Twitter-apologies ?)
    Sue x

  • Yana

    Happy Birthday, Gen! I wish you and your family so many happy minutes as you want! Sorry for my Englis, I dont know it well))

  • Lara

    Dear Gen,
    Greetings and happy birthday wishes from Denmark! I started following you being a big fan of the show and it was therefore a way to gain a little insight into the off-screen life of beloved on-screen actors. However I slowly became intrigued by your thoughts and photos on motherhood, womanhood and how to balance it all. Today I am still a great admirer of the way you handle yourself on social media and I continue to follow you – not to get some small glimpse “behind the curtain”, but because your posts are so inspirational.
    Thank you for a beautiful, honest and well-written blog post on the fears and insecurities that ALL women feel no matter how fortunate and blessed lives we live.
    Keep up the good work! You are an inspiration to many!

  • Michelle

    You’re human, you’re beautiful, a great mother and you’re only as old as the man you feel 🙂

  • Marina

    Dear Genevieve, happy birthday!
    Thank you for writing.
    Thank you for the photo and for the stories about your beautiful family. Your children are very nice.
    And thanks for thinking. This is a big responsibility when you are famous and when you need to take care of your home and your family. And at the same time being a little girl, taken care of.
    I wish you happiness, I wish you much joy and fun next to your loved ones, and many adventures and travels, and lots of laughter and hugs, and friends.
    God bless you and your family!

    Sorry for the bad english.

  • Becky Gilliam

    The best gift anyone can get (or give) is to live life to the fullest. Be proud that you can do so in a whole new year! Bright blessings to you and your beautiful family.❤

  • Genie

    Hope you enjoyed your Birthday!!! It was so sweet that you & your family could be together for celebrating!! Thank you for sharing your thoughts on the passing of time. Time does seem to just pass so quickly. Doing acts of kindness does give meaning to that time. Great idea to challenge us all to spread some kindness too!!! Hugs to you & your family!!! Enjoy 2018!!????

  • Elena Alkhimova

    Hello Genevieve, my name is Elena. Greetings from Ukraine! Genevieve, you are a terrific woman. You are worthy of imitation as a mother, as a loving wife. I from my heart wish you a Happy New Year and Happy Birthday! Let nothing can overshadow your life! I wish your beautiful children to grow up healthy and happy. That they loved and respected their amazing parents! I love you Genevieve with all my soul!

  • Jamile

    I’m in tears, sooo beautiful Gen!! Happy Birthday!!

  • Emma

    Happy Birthday Genevieve! What an inspiring post! I was feeling pretty blue this morning, my family had every type of cold over Christmas so we didn’t celebrate and today is day 6 of being stuck at home whilst my 4 year old battles the chickenpox. I’ve been worrying for my one year old son who will definitely catch it and for myself as I have no clue if I’ve had it before but after reading this post I’m very peaceful. Life is beautiful, whatever will be will be and right now my babies are playing together and shrieking with laughter so I am very blessed. I love your random acts of kindness idea and once we are all back on our feet (and allowed out of our house haha!) I intend to do this myself!
    Have a great birthday and a great year.

    Emma x

  • Andressa

    Happy birthday! And thank you for saying what we all feel, and to show that it’s ok. It sure made my day a little bit better. God bless your Home and your family, and this gift of touching us with your words! You’re real, honest! Keep inspiring!

  • Ileana

    Hi Gen!! First, Happy birthday! I wanted to thank you for always being real about who you are and sharing your life with us. I am going to be 27 this year so I somewhat understand the transition from 30 to 40 you spoke about. In reality I have had my share of ups and downs but ever since I started watching Supernatural and learned more about Jared and Jensen, I received that golden opportunity to get to know you and Danneel. And I have to say that I am glad I did. I have learned so much from you and that makes me want to be better; do better. Now, I don’t blame myself as much, am learning to be more understanding, more compassionate and more real; and I have you to thank for that. I wish you many more happy birthdays and all of the love, joy, peace and wonderful gifts life brings. Keep fighting, stay strong and long live love.
    All of my best,
    Ileana

  • Mahima Kapoor

    A very happy birthday to you, Gen. I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again, there’s nothing as inspiring to me as your honesty and your desire to do better at everything. And the courage with which you set on about doing that. You’re a beautiful person, and I love you, and thank you for your candid words. They mean a lot to me. I hope your day was full of all things lovely and wonderful. So much love for you (from India!).

  • Sawyer

    Happy Birthday Jen…May God meet you at all your tidings and ventures..keep Sammy always Sweet.?

  • Jax

    Happy Birthday!!! I loved this post. I think that when bloggers are truly honest, it makes them and their content more relatable, so great job! These sorts of thoughts have been creeping in for me for the past year or so. Not doing enough, not achieving enough. The biological clock is real, yo. I always thought it was a joke. I often find myself stuck in a mental loop of comparing my life to my friends lives, and then thinking “Hold up, I don’t want her life. Why am I even thinking about this?”. It’s a nonsensical mental spiral and I need to be better at recognising and adapting into something productive.

  • Tanya

    Happy birthday!! In this world where so much of what we see can so often be obsessively edited and curated it is a blessing to be invited to be a part of something genuine and real and spontaneous, and your blog and social media always create a warm welcome to people following your journey – thank you so much for allowing us to share with you.

    I’ll be hitting the “mid-to-late” zone of my thirties in a couple of weeks and every now and then it hits me just how many different experiences we (as people in general) have all had in similar amounts of time. We’re all so very different and yet underneath it all we’re so similar in our desires to figure out our purpose and walk our own paths.

    I hope this year is fun and enlightening and relaxing and surprising and happy for you and your family, and I look forward to sharing the ride along with you via your blog and social channels! <3

  • Summer Read

    Happy Birthday Gen and Happy New Year too! Although I’ve been following you on IG, this is the first time I’ve visited your blog and it’s wonderful! Absolutely loved reading this, thank you for sharing your wisdom and being so candid about it! Wishing you all a wonderful 2018 x
    Summer, http://www.thetwinswardrobe.com

  • Staci

    HAPPY BIRTHDAY Gen!!!

  • Pamela

    Happy Birthday Genevieve. What a wonderful piece. I really enjoyed reading it, and I thank you for sharing. These are things we should all strive for. May 38 be just a blessed and fruitful as the last 37 years.

  • Alex

    Happy Birthday, hope you have yet another incredible year surrounded by those who love you xx

  • Viviani Queiroz

    How beautiful! How much inspiration do you bring. Throughout my 39 years, I still have the same caveats but today I can see the fullness of life. Sorry for the embarrassed English. Kiss and congratulations for the passage of her birthday, the great fan and admirer of Brazil Vivi.

  • Christa

    Happiest of days to you and keep being brave.

  • Izzy

    I ❤️ this soooo much! Thank you sooo much for sharing!

  • Ayn Olivia

    This is beautiful and everything that matters. I’ve got a couple more earth cycles under my belt as I’ve hit four decades on this rock. But this journey from adulting to accepting is a long one. So thankful you started Now and Jen this past year because it’s inspired me to share my voice. I’ve wanted to blog about my journey since 2013 but never thought my words were worthy to share. I’ve been on a journey of self acceptance since then and your blog is one of my inspirations to dive into blogging. Thank you for sharing your perspective and have an amazing 38th earth revolution around our star.
    http://www.aynoliviavaughan.com

  • Petra

    Happy Bday Genevieve! I have been reading your blog for a long while, and I love it, but this post is my favorit. It’s so beautiful and honest 🙂
    Have a nice day and be a happy 37 years old woman 😉

  • Sol

    Hello from Brasil, Gen. I wish a happy birthday to you!! (:

  • Eri

    Happy Birthday Gen! 😀
    I really love your “priority in your life” words, I can take these for me too! Thank you and hope your year will be full of happiness 🙂

  • Jordy Sirkin

    I really enjoyed reading this personal post. Life is a rough ride filled with so many varying emotions – sometimes all in a single day. I certainly feel that pain of age. Not for vapid reasons, but like you said, you can no longer pretend not to be adulting. I’m inching closer to 30 and I feel like I have accomplished enough, or gotten to a point in my career, to feel satified with my point in life. I always thought 30 meant you knew everything, you were structured in your career, knew what the hell you were doing, and life would get simpler. Boy was I wrong. We also put so much pressure on ourselves as women. It’s why it’s so important to have those close friends who you can confide in, or feel comfort in knowing they’re in the same boat as you.

    I hope you had a wonderful birthday! And hopefully the hangover isn’t too strong. The really bad part of age is the longer recovery time.

  • JoAnn Shuck

    Happy birthday Gen. You truly inspire me. It has been hard for me. When I read your message it lifts me up. Since watching you all these years and Jared and Jensen you all have helped me through everything with your messages. When I first saw you on Wildfire you inspired me to get back to riding. Thank you very much you are awesome.

  • Emilee McKissack

    Happy Birthday Gen. Hope you had an amazing day <3

  • Jenniet Galvan

    Happy late Birthday! I really enjoyed your instagram video about doing three random acts of kindness. It’s great to see goodness out in the world with all of the craziness going on right now. It inspired me. Despite all the bad stuff in the world we can be the change we want to see by doing good. We still have that power no matter what is going on and I am so thankful for people like you that inspire me to continue doing good. Thank you for being a light.

  • Angela Burnett

    A very happy birthday to you! I also turned 37 in December, and I find myself feeling the same way that you’re feeling. I have two wonderful children, aged 6 and 3, and I’m a middle school teacher – I think that helps me to feel somewhat younger….some days, LOL. It can be so tiring with the kids, especially because you have three, and one under a year old at that! You seem to be able to find time to take care of yourself though, which is so important. Keep inspiring others with your truthfulness, and you have so many experiences to look forward to. I try to tell myself that when I feel “older”, those days when life just seems to be dragging me down. <3

  • Renae

    Great post. Honest and insightful.
    At 46 I had and have these thoughts also but what always prevails is the knowledge that we are all just doing the best we can.
    Although you are blessed with a wonderful life and awesome opportunities you are not immune from the curve balls life throws at us.
    Enjoy this busy and exhausting time as a mum of three young kids. I think you are doing a great job x

  • Nicki Johnson

    Oh girl, you are awesomeness! Love how real you are! We’ve been through a few similar things you and i! I’m so very sorry about your sister, my daughter had a brain trauma and it is life changing, not only for the person but the family is deeply impacted for the rest of their lives! I can honestly look back on it now and realize how grateful I am for that trial, and how much clearer our eyes are now about what’s truly important! I can honestly say 37 was tough for me, for all the reasons you pointed out, but now at 41 I can say I LOVE it, I truly do! I know myself now, love myself, forgive myself for all of my insecurities, and failings! And I have trained myself to be kind to , even being bigger than I have ever been, I know look at myself in the mirror and think… Oh honey, you’ve been through so much, now as you lose the weight you are healing yourself, moving past the trauma! I’m proud of you for surviving all that you have, you are adorable and I thoroughly enjoy you! Happy Birthday, Mama!

  • Nicole

    Happy birthday! I loved reading this. Today is actually my birthday (so that makes us practically birthday twins, hey, fellow capricorn!). Thank you for such an inspiring post. Every year, I grow a little more weary, but I never want to lose that light in my heart. I actually make a list of things I want to accomplish on my birthday based on my age. So this year, I’m turning 31, so I have a “31 for 31” list. Some things are trivial, like master a french braid (I’m so hopeless when it comes to hair stuff), and others are deeper, like be softer and kinder to myself (especially when I feel like I’m spinning out of control and screwing my life completely up. mean thoughts automatically spring out of my mind at myself. I want to try to put a stop to that). It’s hard not to compare where you are in life when you see others your same age (or sometimes younger) accomplishing great things. I just have to remind myself that we are all on different timelines, and comparsion truly is the theif of joy. So, in all of this rambling mess, thank you for being such an inspiration. Your blog makes me smile. I sincerely hope this is one of your best years yet, and next year will be even better, and so on.

    Love, Nicole

  • Karla Santana

    Happy Birthday Gen! This post is very inspirational. Thanks for sharing.

  • Alicia

    This is a great reminder for all of us. I am very aware of how close I am to 35 and am reminded every day by some well – intentioned people that I am not getting any younger and am still single with no kids. Why is that a crime for a woman to not be married or have children at this age? Anyway, that is a subject for another blog i guess. Happy birthday! Keep living for you and remind yourself that you are only human and are not perfect. You are pretty damn amazing though!

  • Elena

    We are our worst enemies. I’ve had the same struggles too but changing how I think about it is a huge game changer. I’m here to be me and no one else. What I do now on this world will leave a mark and that will become my legacy. So I commend you for changing your thoughts and making the effort to be a better positive you!

  • Isis

    This is so heartwarming. You are an amazing woman, wife and mom! You inspire me everyday and I’m glad you are choosing to inspire yourself this year. Wish you the best Gen ?

  • Kathy

    Happy Birthday Gen-mine was December 30th and I turned 37 so I’m right there with you!

  • Niki

    Happy Birthday, Gen! I just wanted to let you know that you inspire me. I’m 21 (almost 22) with a child of my own, 2 part time jobs and a full time class schedule and I’m doing it all alone. When I get stressed, your blogs and Instagram posts bring me so much joy. Your family is so beautiful and you have accomplished so much. You give me something to aspire to. I look forward to getting to know you more with each blog post and every step you take in your journey of being true to yourself.

    Much love!
    Niki

  • Lara

    Gen,

    First off, another very happy birthday to you! I, too, had a birthday yesterday. I hit the big 2-5, and I’ve not been feeling great about where I am in my life for the age that I am. This post makes me feel better. I need to learn to go easier on myself, but also push myself in ways that are positive. So, know that I am on that journey with you.

    And as for 37, Miss Gen, you have done so much, have inspired and made such good in the world. And that’s not nothing. In fact, that’s everything.

    Best wishes to you always!

  • Sarah Aaliyah

    Happy Birthday Gen !! And I wanted to say, that I get really inspired by your posts. I’m only 15 years old (nearly 16 🙂 )
    but when I’m reading your texts, I’m getting hope to have a happy & succsessful life and I want to work for a good future. So, thank you for the inspiration you’re giving me with your words.

  • Mary

    You are a great woman Genevieve!!

  • Lyrain

    Happy Birthday to you Gen.

  • Diane

    Happy birthda Gen,
    I wanted to tell you how moved I was by this blog post. I love a great deal of what you write about but this one; simply put hit me the hardest, right in the feels. It greatly spoke to me on a personal level, and I wanted to thank you for this. I am inspired by you and the honesty of what you bring to the table. So Thank you, and Happy birthday.

  • Ahyokah

    Happy birthday or or 37th earth day as we often call it in our family. My father has often told me the number just sysimbolises how many times the earth has rotated the sun.

    So much of what you have written here and particularly in this post speaks to me , often what I find you write about there in usually something in there that are the same things going on in my life at the time . Weather it be , family or personal. The same quote in this one is one that was told to me when I was young ever through school which helped me have sympathy for those who bullied me and it was explained to me about you never know what that person is going through else where ‘ as you said we all have our battles. Forgiveness is a big one in my life at the moment but thank for reminding me I also need to forgive myself I am particularly hard on myself a lot of the time . … as we all can be .
    I loved all of this post but I found the part in which you talk about competitiveness interesting I too am I very competitive person but I’ve never looked at it like this , that being too competitive could also have negative and that part of it could be a defensive mechanism.
    Again and as also thank you for being real thank you for sharing. I too believe we need ups and downs to appreciate things in life , it what I try to always explain to people who are on a low to ride the wave it will pass and the high will seem even grater for it .
    But in this you also explain how you felt embraced about sharing and while I could try to tell you you should never feel this way for sharing you true self it is a natural emotional . And I truly believe strength comes from vulnerability. So thank you for being both . Again happy birthday. X

  • Beth

    Happy Birthday, Genevieve! I am so thankful you’re on the planet. Here’s to another 37! <3

  • Lynn

    Happy Birthday Gen. I hope you did enjoy your day! I really enjoyed reading this blog. We are about the same age, and although our life circumstances are completely different, I’m interested to read more about your aspect on “adulting” and managing your health and mental wellbeing. Like the quote you shared, we are all dealing with our own battles and for me, it’s great to hear other people’s perspectives on dealing with the daily struggles of life. Thank you for sharing your life, family and blog with us. Look forward to read how you are getting on with your new outline of priorities. Wishing you and the family a very happy 2018!

  • Evie

    What a beautiful and honest blog. Love your priorities, they are very thoughtful.

  • Julia

    I hope you had an awesome, boomy, comfortable, deluxe, ebullient, funny, gargantuan, heartily, impressive, joyful, kind, legendary, magical, never ending, outstanding, passionate, queenly, record-setting (Was there a record in drinking something Japanese really, really quick?), scrumptious, thoughtful, upbeat, veracious, wonderful, XXL, yummy and last but not least zealous birthday. I wish you all the best for the future and I hope you have many more moments to come which you can label with any of that adjectives.

  • Maggie

    I love this post. 2018 is going to be a milestone for me; one that I’m happy to make because the alternative truly sucks, but I still feel that I have SO much to do in this life and not enough time to do it all. I love how you counted things that weren’t necessarily happy ones in your list of achievements. And, I LOVE that you are doing random acts of kindness. We need more kindness in our world right now. Namaste, Gen. I hope you had a wonderful birthday.

  • Elizabeth Dickey

    HAPPIEST (belated, I know I said it yesterday on IG and Twitter) DAY OF THE BIRTH GEN!!!! This year, I plan to work on some of the same goals you have. Next month I hit the big 3-0 and I was as excited about it at 25 as I am now. I’m gonna embrace 30 so hard 30 will want me to leave! Lol
    Blessed be, Gen <3

  • Sarah

    Happy Birthday, Gen! I want to thank you for creating this blog, for putting yourself out there, and for making this amazing list of priorities. Even at 18, the priorities that you described are ones that I can relate to and want to implement in my own life. As a freshman in college, one of the major things that I hope to change this year is my perspective on not only situations but myself as well. I want to become more of positive thinker – a kinder one – one in a time where it seems easier to just think the worst of the situation and drown in the evils of the world (as Sam Winchester once said!) Keep doing what you are doing, and thank you so much for sharing! Sending light and love your way.

  • Lisa

    Happy birthday. I love your honesty about getting older, by the way-you look fantastick. I felt the same way when i got closer to my 40th about getting older. We all have judge ourselves way to harshly. However, when I turned 50 (i’m now 51), i wanted to show it off the rooftop, cause I made it. And I celebrated in a big way. Kudus to you (:

  • Carly

    Happy Belated-Birthday Gen! Thank you so much to you and your family for being an inspiration for all of us fans, especially those like myself who haven’t quite decided what our position in life is. I hope you continue to do so, thank you and again hope you had a great day!

  • Valentina

    Wishing you a very wonderful birthday! Being a mother approaching the new 30…. (cause I don’t want to think about 40), I know all to well about feeling success and failures. But I want to say thank you. Thank you for being brave enough to say that you can and have failed. I try to do everything and I end up feeling so hopeless when I realize I can’t do everything. As a mother/wife/friend/sister I want to help everyone and I have a hard time telling people no. But I am going to take your advice and make a list of priorities I need in my life. #1 will have to be taking care of myself. Because although I know this…. I can’t help anyone if I am not ok….. actually applying it has been a challenge. So that will be my 36 birthday/new year intention!
    Again thank you!!!! Best wishes to you and your beautiful family in 2018!!! ❤️

  • Christine

    Beautiful pictures and thoughtful words. I hope your birthday was even better than expected. You are a beautiful lady (inside and out).

  • Sarah-Nelle Lavallee

    Happy birthday! i know im a little late, but still. you are so inspireing and a role model espeacially for me as i am currently in my tenage years. thank you for for just being you and thank you for your blog. i wish you and your family the best in the new year. you are truly someone that i would proudly try to follow the footsteps of. i look forward to your posts!

  • Kim Jacobs

    Gen, you are wise beyond your years. Many people who are much older than you have not found half the acceptance, or are anywhere near as generous of spirit. Life is indeed a journey and we must all come to terms with what that journey brings us. I was fortunate to learn a lot of these lessons for myself in my late 20’s and early 30’s – i’m now in my late 50’s – though, as you say, that is just a number and seems quite meaningless. I love hearing your stories, the antics of your children, and seeing the pure love between you and your husband. You are both positive role models for your kids, and for all of us.

    Thank you, and have an awesome birthday month (why restrict yourself to just one day?). Doing random acts of kindness is not something I put thought or effort into, it’s something I do instinctively, but I am going to follow your example and your challenge to do a little extra.

    I really hope to meet you one day so I can tell you in person how much of an inspiration you are.

  • Julieta

    Happy birthday! It’s funny, I felt very similar to you when I turned 37. I’ll be turning 39 this year and I’m not sure how I feel about it. What I have learned is that age really is just a number and it’s what you do with your life that really matters. I love your goals. They’re great and so honest & pure. Wishing you all the best. Hugs to you and your famiy.

  • Valerie P.

    Happy birthday once again. Thank you for sharing this bit of truth and wisdom. It is very nice to read everyones stories and self realizations. Your blog is an amazing read. You are an accomplished woman and will continue to be.
    I agree with you and lean towards your views and intentions. So wise, loving, beautiful, and true, you are.
    ? Much love, big hugs & appreciation.

  • Vicki Barana

    Happy Birthday Gen! Hope you had an amazing day! I can relate to the issue with the number (although mine is 50 and 5 months away)… I have to say that the sharing you do here and in social media is helpful and uplifting for me. I have to admit that I’m “stealing” some of your ideas / thoughts to improve myself as well. Thanks to you (and Jared) for sharing your life with us all. You’re both (and the rest of the #SPNFamily) very inspiring to many of us in our journey. I also wanted to thank you also for the tips of places you like in Austin, the hubby and I were planning to go in the future and I’ve been making a list from your posts – I can’t wait to see the city he liked so much from his travels and explore these new spots with him!

  • Lisa

    I AM 40 years old…..It’s very scary to be getting “up” there but at the same time I’m realizing how everyday is a blessing in itself. Alot of people don’t even make it to this age!! I should be thankful which I truly am. Live each day to the fullest and count your blessings your still here enjoying life, love and family ❤️

  • Adriana Cruz

    Your words touched me in the bottom of my heart. Happy birthday! I wish you the best.

  • Brittany Willingham

    Happy birthday, Gen. First things first you should know how loved you are. Seeing all the great things you are doing, you have become a role model to me. I look up to you because you are the most inspirational person I have ever come across. Keep your chin up and know that we love you!

  • Azure

    Happy bday Gen!!!! You are sun h an amazing person and a wonderful mother. Don’t stop being amazing! You and Jared and ADORABLE!!!!

  • Selin Cicek

    Happy Birthday ❤?

  • Erin

    Such well written words. I will also turn 37 this year on St. Patrick’s Day, and your words strike a very familiar chord in my brain. The past 15 years of my life have been spent as a child and adolescent mental health nurse, and while I do not have kids of my own I feel fortuante/grateful enough to have left an impact and legacy on all the young people that I have taken care of and helped. I love your mindset and how to approach this year, and am inspired to challenge myself and my thought process to climbing ever closer to the 4-0. Thank you for being such a beautiful inspiration and happiest of belated birthdays.

  • Jutta

    You are one of the inspiring woman out there! Thank you for being you!

  • Carla Soares

    Beautiful Gen parabens vc e muito especial e nos mostra isso atraves dos sei gestos solidarios e com sua famila ….super mae ….encantadora …paz saude muita luz no seu caminho e felicidades mil ao lado dos que ama….

  • Carla Soares

    Parabens …..lindas fotos super mae …familia linda …felicidades mil ao lado dos que ama
    Bjs

  • Lyndsey Maclean

    Hope you had a good birthday! My daughters birthday is also on the 8th, she was 15! 15, can’t believe I have a 15 year old even though I am 42 ? My beautiful girl has special needs so I’m extra grateful for every birthday I get to spend with her.
    Great Post as usual, love reading about what you’re up to and seeing the lovely photos of your fab family ❤️

  • Liz Beecroft

    Gen – your post resonates so closely for me.
    I turn 40 this year and rapidly see the time passing and have regrets for things not done, for not spending time with my children more, for being a working mother, for not seeing my extended family more etc. etc.
    But life is what we make it, and how we allow it to shape who we are.
    Thank you for showing that, underneath it all, we have struggles, regrets, achievements and joy.

    A little joy goes a long way, and a smile means nothing until you give it away!

    Happy birthday x

  • Marilyn Case

    I’m fast approaching 64 and don’t feel a day over 30 – sometimes. Other days, my body reminds me of how old I actually am. But I try to celebrate each day, week, month, and year as I go through this thing called life. With depression, it’s not always easy. But the mantra #AlwaysKeepFighting rings in my ear, in the voice of your wonderful husband, to whom I owe so much. Love you and your beautiful family!

  • Marilyn Case

    I’m fast approaching 64 and don’t feel a day over 30 – sometimes. Other days my body reminds me of how old I really am. But I try to celebrate each day, week, month and year as I go through this thing called life. With depression, it’s not always easy. But the mantra #AlwaysKeepFighting rings in my ear, in the voice of your wonderful husband, to whom I owe so much. Love you and your beautiful family!

  • Buffy

    What a fantastic post and at the perfect time. I love reading your posts, probably because you are so down to earth and you give yourself permission to fail. We all need reminders of this and need to support each other. Thank you for always allowing me to understand that I am a super woman. As a single mom and teacher in one of lowest paid states (just to the North of you) I struggle on daily basis and am always questioning myself about my parenting skills and am I working hard enough. I wll be back to read this post many times and plan to share it with other super women I know. I truly appreciate you sharing yourself with us. Also, just had surgery, there are probably many typos in here! Lol!

  • Stacey

    Please keep writing like this! I feel this is the most real and honest post on your entire blog. <3

  • MaryAnn

    You took the words right out of my mouth, I’m not very good at writting or getting my thoughts out there. Happy late Birthday and I have been feeling the same way, this past Monday was my 38th birthday and I’m scared to death of getting older because with each year that passes I feel that I won’t have time for my hopes and dreams. Thank you for sharing your feelings and you are not alone in them. I wish you all the best in this new year

  • Jean Prescott

    You have such a beautiful family, and I’m guessing you are the glue that holds it all together. It’s true. It’s what wives/moms do…happily. Not all soft and gooey though but with lots of snap, crackle and pop. Here’s to a wonderful year for us all.

  • Carly Mikula

    Did you have odette in your home like shep????

  • Natalia

    You are an inspiration to me, thank you for this wonderful publication.

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