I don't feel any older...

So I turned an age I'm not comfortable with yesterday. And I became one of those people who got mopey and sad on her birthday. My apologies to those who had to put up with it and yes I do realize the alternative to having a birthday is death. But in my reflection on this whole aging thing I looked back on some of the cooler moments in my life, things I've done that are exciting or unusual or that I'm just plain proud of... here are a few:

Travelled to Greece.

Hand raised baby lions… among other odd animal experience – five years working in private zoo.

Graduated with honours B.Sc. in environmental biology.
Applied and was hired for environmental exchange program resulting in living in Costa Rica for 3.5 months. Became fluent in Spanish (or at least functional). Was part of a group of incredible people doing amazing work in a magnificent country. Returned to my home province and did stream enhancement project - results that I can still see to this day.

Moved to brand new cities in brand new provinces twice - once for a job, once for my soul.

Spent 7 years working for federal environmental lab. Published several papers and national methods. Became fluent in all information Polychaete related (aquatic worms - yup, I know alot about aquatic worms). Traveled for training to national centre on three separate occasions. Went to national conferences on 3 seperate occasions - including my favourite in St. John's, Newfoundland - a city that would become very dear to my heart.

Got out of Moncton (this is a much bigger accomplishment than those four words would indicate and includes learning many lessons).

Applied and was accepted into an advanced degree program at a university "out West". Drove across the country with what fit in a Honda to start life over. Became part of an entirely new scene – became arts junkie, uber volunteer. Worked events like the Prairie Music Awards and then the Junos. Survived ensuing poverty without burning too many bridges.

Had much covetted summer position at festival that I love. Then got much covetted arts job at a theatre that I really wanted to work at. Started own House and Pet Sitting business – it’s growing, really it is.
Developed close relationship with two children who I love more than life and who love me too. (Kids of two friends who I am also rather fond of.)
Got a jacket for volunteering 100 hours at 2005 Folk Fest.
Continue working and volunteering...although more and more it's real, actual work... for a large number of music types in a variety of capacities.

And in one week I head to Halifax to show a friend my city and work yet again at the Junos, although under different potentially more fun circumstances...

So I guess I've done a thing or two. And I'm not done! So even though I have reached this ripe old age without managing to accomplish those things we are "supposed" to accomplish - getting married, having kids etc., I guess I have accomplished a few things, carved out a place for myself. And I like it here.