370 Words on Being 37

37 is an interesting age. I’m not young or old. I’m in between. 37 is where the rubber meets the road. Things are happening fast. Exciting times.

I’ll write briefly, with just 370 words, on being 37.

First things first. I’m mother to a vivacious, artistic, intelligent two-year-old son, the most darling thing on earth to me. I’m wife, for nearly a decade, to a visionary man overflowing with good ideas, commitment to duty, and strong cravings to be a man of leisure. I’m daughter to loving parents, alive and well, who bring quality time, care for my son, and warm celebrations. I greatly value my whole family, and old, new, and work friends. I love everybody. Especially people I’ve experienced life with. My nearest and dearest are the meat and potatoes of life: hearty and satisfying.

My ideal good time is still a hot tub, lively conversation, champagne, and ten hours of sleep. Or a long sunny day, river, and good people. Or a woodstove and coffee.

The reality of being 37 is surprising. Time is scarce. I’m better at taming my laziness, drama, and distractions. I’m more motivated, potent, and effective. Giving birth to a beautiful baby was a miracle. Watching my boy grow up quickly is a real kick in the pants. Life rearranges to prioritize my son’s success. I’m expanding my professional abilities at my medical sales job. I’m a disciplined blogger, publicly sharing my ideas. I’m writing a holiday window painting book for pure joy and independent professional money-making. I’m prioritizing sleep, health, happiness, and longevity for myself and everyone. I plan to become an excellent housekeeper.

With my husband, I’m good at eliminating debt and slowly building wealth. We’re frugal. We’re financially lean, even while living abundant American lives. We’re lucky.

I experience hardships. I make mistakes, face misfortunes, and endure pain. It’s important to handle my bad luck well. I keep plowing life’s fields rain or shine. Like everyone else, I have to play injured and maximize what I’ve got.

Life is incredibly good. I’m happy. At 37, I’m grateful for the past, strategizing a beautiful future, and living artistically today. I’m making the world a brighter place. I plan to keep improving.

Photo by Adam Rolison.