Looking Back at One Decade and Forward to Another
Deep breath in...deep breath out. Deep breath in...deep breath out. Siestas, I have less than 48 hours left before I wave a fond goodbye to my twenties and embrace the big 3-0. As of right now I'm not freaking out. I keep thinking that I will enjoy being the baby of the 30's more than the oldest of the 20's. Let me recount some of the high points of the last ten years.
Age 20: The Lord started opening doors for me to serve Him in ministry for the first time. I got to help with youth camp and was a missions intern that summer. I also met Curtis Jones! I learned a lot about my Redeemer.
Age 21: I got involved with Breakaway Ministries at Texas A&M. It was such a blessing in my life. Curtis and I went on a mission trip to Venezuela with a team from Breakaway. We came home knowing we wanted to serve God together for the rest of our lives and started asking Him to make a way for us to be married. (At that point we were still in college and living 11 hours apart.) We got engaged shortly after and then Curtis transferred to Houston Baptist University and got a job working in the youth department at HFBC. The Four Moores took a trip to Paris and Switzerland that summer.
Age 22: I graduated from college and married Curtis a month later!
Age 23: This probably wasn't the easiest year. I loved being married, but it was definitely an adjustment. This was my first full year of employment at LPM.
Age 24: Curtis and I left Houston for a 5 month stint in England. We had some amazing experiences and learned a ton of important lessons there. I led my first Beth Moore Bible study - Breaking Free - with a group of British women who were at least 20 years older than me. Bless them for their patience with me! I had sworn I would never do that study because my friends constantly told me how hard it was. :)
Age 25: We moved to Irving, Texas, a few days before my 25th birthday and we started our three-and-a-half year season working with students at First Baptist Church of Irving. We bought our first home that summer and the next day found out we were expecting a baby.
Age 26: The best and hardest year of my life - becoming a mom!
Age 27: I had a blast with my little family of 3. Jackson was a little bit older and we took him everywhere. We were always going to local festivals, having playdates with friends, and spending lots of time with our church family.
Age 28: I got to stand next to my sister as she married the man of her dreams. We moved back to Houston and got to be fully involved with Living Proof. We loved getting to share everyday life with my parents again. We found out we were expecting another baby!
Age 29: The Lord gave me a daughter! Sometimes I still have to pinch myself. We made some incredible memories as a family this year.
I have so much to be thankful for. Why shouldn't I look forward to my thirties? Actually, I don't want you to answer that. I would love to know from those of you who have been there or are currently there, what do I have to look forward to? What are some of the best things about your 30's?
posted by Amanda @ 11:36 AM
222 Comments
222 Comments:
30---Oh to say I'm 30 something. As with anything it has it's pros and cons. #1 pro is that you don't have to relive those teen years again--#2 now for the most part everyone will think of you as an adult. Con #1 it seems that at this age your body parts start falling apart #2 you're half of 60(my daughter told me this great truth)
Now mind you Amanda, this is coming from a soon to be 50 year old--Next week to be exact. Now I just tell my husband of 33 years that I will pick up his pieces if he'll pick up mine!!!Hey girl, I was having some fun with you. Life is great and and better! I say that if I woke up this morning, life's good!! Enjoy that sweet family and don't miss a moment of living your life to the fullest---Have a Happy Birthday!!!!!!!
Carla Lee Corryton, Tn
Honestly, I was kind of relieved to be released from my 20's. They were a time of great transition - which can be wonderful and enormously difficult at the same time. So much insecurity and indecision. I know lots of women like me who are loving their 30's because they have much more peace with who they are, don't get as upset over the "little" things and have a confidence that has been earned through experience.
Personally, my relationship with God also deepened from a "Lord, can you please do this for me?" dialogue to "Lord, thank You that You are in control and I am not." You may already be there. But I definitely was not!
Welcome to the 30's Amanda. I think you'll like it. I'm lookin' hard at 40 and I think that decade will be great, too.
Amelia - 38
(I used to be pushin' 30. Now I'm draggin' it!)
the best is yet to come sweet thang! i am sure, i was devastated at 25, again at 35, and gulp at 40! okay so i stopped there, but as long as there is haircolor, and awesome cosmetics, i am not getting older, just better and wiser! and Life really does get better with age! love ya, my birthday was the 5th, love me some October babies!
Enjoy it! It isn't your 40's! =) Just kidding...kinda. I wish I had spent more time just enjoying my 30s. It seems like in your 20's you are still figuring out who you are and becoming an adult...leaving your parents and starting your new life. By the time you hit your 30s, you have done alot of hard work on becoming independent. Take your 30s and enjoy the person God has made you to be and enjoy the family you have. I sweated over such stupid stuff in my 30s and now wish I could go back and do it again. But I am trying not to make the same mistake in my 40s. I have finally figured out it isn't that number on my birth certificate or driver's license that really matters. It is that number of years I have walked with God that matters. And it is that number of friends who have stood by all my stupid stuff and still love me that matters. I guess what I am trying to say is don't sweat your age...enjoy your life!
I just turned 30 about a month ago and right when I did, my health just went south! BUT, God is showing me so many things already so, I believe, that my 30s are going to be such a time for spiritual growth! I had my 3 babies in my 20s! I can't wait to see what God has in store! To God be the glory!!!
The thirties are wonderful! You get to watch those babies grow into sweet children, then.....a teen!!! You join PTA, become a homeroom mom, or a team sport mom! You grow closer to your sweet husband and find that there are continually new ways to enjoy each other. You will really take hold of how loving and patient our Heavenly Father is with us as you grow "patience" with your family! And you still have bunches of energy to do it! May God bless you many times over in your new decade!!!! Mammybeth
Amanda - Honestly - the 30's have been so enriching for me. I have become more comfortable in my skin than ever before and more sure of who I am and who I want to be. The 30's are wonderful - look forward to them and embrace them. :)
Happy Birthday, Amanda. You'll love the 30's. I'm halfway through and am enjoy them TONS! My mom always told me the 30's were the best. Seems she's right! Enjoy.
Blessings,
Shana from MN
I'll be 34 at the end of the month. I can't put a finger on it, but I have LOVED my thirties so far. I definitely haven't settled down--God has had us on quite a ride--but there's still something comfortable (or maybe comforting) about this stage of life. I love having kids instead of babies. I love celebrating double-digit wedding anniversaries. I love mentoring younger friends.
Happy Birthday, beautiful Amanda!!
Girl, i don't know, but I joined the club about 3 weeks ago. Let us know what you find out. Happy Birthday.
You have a very blessed life.
What I remember most about my 30's was settling in to a really great place with my man. We both married late, I was 29 and he was almost 35.
At first there was such an adjustment and a power struggle. Everything on my part was such a competition of sorts. He was and is very laid back, I am high maintenance and high strung! LOL
But we finally "melded" together and got on the same page. The two became one and now we are twice the power working together for the same common goal.
I really like that. Sure makes life a lot easier and our marriage so much more enjoyable!!
Blessings on the Big 3-0! You are so much wiser and further down the road than I ever was at that age.
Be bold and confident in who you are in Christ Jesus and have a very happy and blessed birthday!
Ok, so I turned 30 last year and was totally dreading it. I mean REALLY dreading it something fierce. But you know what? It was one of the best years of my life thus far.
Something about the magical age of 30 made me feel like a real adult for the first time. Although I'd been married and had a 9-year-old, I'd never actually felt like a grown-up, I guess.
I turned 31 a couple of months ago and am truly loving this decade the most of all so far. It's nothing to dread because apparently life enters a brand new, fantastic phase!
P.S. Happy birthday! Oh, and guess what? My baby turns 10 today (just one day before your b-day and mine is the day before Melissa's - crazy, huh?)
Sounds like you did have a lot of special times in your 20s - however, I will say that your 30s brings a lot more 'contentment'. Content with who you are as a person, content with who you are as a Mom and content with who you are as a child of God.
Or, maybe that's just me.
I turned 39 last month and admit wholeheartedly my thirties were much kinder to me than my twenties. I feel like I'm finally starting to 'get' many things God has tried to show me. It's a blast! Welcome, Amanda!
In your thirties, you figure out who you are. The twenties seem to be spent trying to figure out who you are going to be. In your thirties, you get a clearer picture. You have established your career and your family and are able to focus on who He created YOU to be aside from the other great things in your life.
Hi Amanda,
It's an igniting, exciting time. All that you have learned and know seem to have an explosive affect. That is what I have found. Powerful moments. Personally for me I did hit a difficult place in my mid 30's but that was me. I just noticed how things became crystal clear and I found out talking to others how they had powerful changes for good in their 30's.
Alli
I'm 43 now....but I'll tell you one of the things I enjoyed most about my 30s.....becoming more and more comfortable in my own skin....or with it, I guess it depends on how you look at it. lol. I only know that somewhere in that decade I really started to actually enjoy who I am as a person...imperfections and all.
Having just turned 39, the best part for me has been watching my children grow through the 3-13 and 0-9 years (my son was 3 and my daughter was almost here when I turned 30). It has been SUCH FUN being their mom! I only wish I had blogged about it all those years, like you're doing now... what a treasure that will be for them.
Also, I have to say, my perspective on sooo many things has changed from where it was 10 years ago. I think I can only appreciate it in hindsight though, rather than noticing it while I was walking those years. I'm way more laid back about things now than I was 10 years ago.
By the way, it seems like I turned 30 yesterday...
It's flown by faster than my 20's did!
Happy early Birthday Amanda!!
Growing up and walking in who Christ has made you to be:)
Amanda, What a good idea, to look back and count the blessings in your life! Don't worry, you're going to do the 30's in fine style!
Turning 30 didn't faze me. It was turning 31 that bothered me. I could no longer say I just turned 30 -- now I was in my 30s! Now that I'm 54, I can't imagine ever being upset by turning 31 :)
I will prestate that I am 40 now.
Truly 30 is just as amazing as any age can be. No wonder people say you will be in your 30's in heaven. It is a great time.
I got married, had kids, bought my first house that is attached to my farm, AND have loved the Lord like I never dreamed possible. It is amazing. You will find yourself coming into your own (so to speak). Around 35 my glass was totally overflowing with the Lord's love and that allowed me to pour it out onto others in ways that I never dreamed I would ever be privileged to do.
You will love 30. Sit back, put your helmet on and ENJOY this ride. It is a breath of fresh air!
Blessings
Kelli in Colorado
At 35, I found my self pregnant with my handsome son Kent, who is now 13. No he wasn't my first child but after two daughters he was my first child in eleven years. What a blessing he is! <><
I am 38, and I can honestly say that my 30's have been the decade where I finally became comfortable in my own skin. You just really make peace with who you are, and begin to lose a lot of the insecurities you faced in younger years. Mothering does a lot to take your eyes off yourself and stretch you in unimaginable ways. It has been a decade of all kinds of growth, and at the same time, a decade of settling comfortably into who I am. I had all three of my kids between 30 and 36, and I think that is making this 3rd decade of my life more rewarding than any of my previous years. Primarily because age combined with motherhood makes you realize more than ever that it's not all about you. And there is a lot of freedom in that.
Aw, Happy Birthday! I remember turning 30 and then moving here 2 days later. I think it was a good distraction. I have enjoyed the
30's so far. It's interesting to look back over the 20's like you did and see where you were and how far you have come, thank you Jesus.
I always thought my mom was silly to tell me that 30s were easier. Now that I am there, I definately agree. Being 20 is so much about using your own wings, and of course making some silly mistakes along with it. I am 33 (but essentially 29 forever) and loving it. I feel like the Lord is working more now and maybe He is - maybe He isn't - maybe it's just I'm more open to His leading and not my own. Woo-Hoo your way through it girl, there is no going back. It's all a journey and age is just a number to mark the way. Enjoy the journey He's leading you through! :)
Oh I love this post! My 20's were filled with so many life changes, but I will turn 30 in March and am
some what, okay a lot, apprehensive. My stomach drops thinking about it!
Hi Amanda,
My birthday is today! I can't believe I'm 52--it does sneak up on you! But I can clearly remember how dismayed I was at turning 30. Now that I'm on this side of 30, I can see how I relaxed into who I was as my 30s progressed. I wasn't so worried about what others thought of me, or about my image or appearance. I just became more comfortable with myself.
Now that I'm even older, it's become even more important that I please the Lord above anyone else. I've grown more deeply in Him, and that means the most to me. It sounds like you are so much farther along that road than I was at your age, so I expect you will truly enjoy your 30s.
Happy Birthday from another Birthday Girl :)
I was pregnant with my first child, a boy, when I turned 30 so it wasn't that big of a deal, the baby was! In my thirties I finally got comfortable with myself,my personality, my likes and dislikes, etc., and no longer felt the need to be like someone else. It was a wonderful decade for me. When I was 34 my daughter was born. Physically I could do anything and had a blast climbing mountains and hiking.
The Lord become more real to me than ever that decade. I learned what it meant for Him to be the "Lover of my soul".
You have so much to look forward to. You're probably tired of hearing it but savor every minute, especially with your babies, because they really do grow up so very fast. (Mine are 24 and 20 now.)
With age comes wisdom. I discovered that young moms and newlyweds would ask ME questions. In the Titus two scenario...you can switch back and forth from the older woman to the younger woman pretty easily. ;-)
The older I get in my thirties...the more I am playing the older woman role. :-)
Amanda- This is such a precious list... HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!
I loved my thirties! My 20's were really hard - trying to deal with a lot of emotional baggage from my adolescence as a newlywed made for some rough times. Plus I didn't have my first kid until I was 35, so that automatically made my 30's wonderful.
Here's my short list of pluses and minues of my thirties:
Pluses
1) Becoming a mom. Looking back I am so glad God waited until I was 35 for my first child, because I was so not ready to be a mom when I was wanting kids in my 20's.
2) Hubby finally learned to put the toilet seat down! *grin*
3) I got over the need to be perfect at all the things that were new to me in my 20's - perfect wife, perfect housekeeper, perfect cook, perfect employee, perfect Christian (there's an oxymoron) and finally felt much more comfortable with myself.
4) I developed some really precious friendships in my 30's.
5) I did my first Bible Study (A Woman's Heart) and have loved God's Word ever since.
6) I learned how to say "NO"...
Minuses
1) My parents started experiencing health issues. It gave me a foretaste of the reality called aging.
2) I found it easy (I still do) to become overwhelmed with all the demands and things I have to do.
Joyful wishes to you Amanda on your big 3-0 birthday! I pray you are richly blessed in the next decade.
Much love,
Adrienne
Some of my sweetest memories of having my boys and watching them grow.
I wouldn't go back...I just hit 35!! Wow, I wouldn't trade the things I have learned about our LORD. I look forward to deeper undstanding as the years come. I look at white haired women of the faith and wonder, "What do you know that I don't?"
I'm now a few months from...uh hum...mid-thirties...The big 3-0 was not as hard for me as 23. (I know, how wierd is that!) Even though I had been married for almost 4 years, 23 meant you were out of college, working and "responsible." By 30 I had two kids and one on the way...I had 30 year old responsibilities--why not be 30! I'm looking forward to being that older, been-there-done-that mom who can walk beside some younger moms and encourage them, "You can do this. God chose you for this child at this time. What a priviledge! Make the most of it!" Right now I'm in the middle of needing that encouragement!
Happy Birthday, Amanda! Thanks for sharing--we have somethings in common (I have son just a few months younger than Jackson.) God has blessed my life with yours! Hope you have a great day!
I can't wait to read people's comments on this one b/c I'm right there with you sister! I just turned 30 a couple of months ago and I've never been one to care about my age but this one got into my head a little bit. I'm still getting used to it. It doesn't help that my husband is still 27... :) Have a blessed 30th!
I picked something new I wanted to learn to do in my thirties -- tennis! It's been fun to sneak in a lesson here or there and hope that I can play a game before the next big decade bday arrives!
I've found that I spent most of my 20's searching - for the perfect spouse, perfect body, perfect job, perfect housing, perfect church, etc. I wrestled with God even when things were good - I just thought life should look different.
I turend 30 in May, and with it came a sense of peace. Life will never be perfect, but I'm going to live out who God created me to be. There's more of a settled feeling -- even though I still do not have a husband, house, etc. etc.
30 has allowed me to 'be me' and be totally okay with that!
We built a house the year I turned 30.
Then I became a mother, once at 32 and again at 38!
Thirties are fine, but the 40's are when you really start to live. You especially as your children will be all but grown.
I love, love, love my 30's! I love the deeper relationships with all those close to me-first and foremost Christ-that the 30's is bringing. My 20's had some awesome occasions, but there's no denying that my 30's are richer. I feel like my 20's were in pastel colors, but I see everything in much brighter jewel tones now. I have no idea if that makes any sense!! At any rate, I hope this birthday is your happiest one yet! Lots of lovin' to you!!
Happy Birthday!! 30 is a big milestone, but I felt more settled into who I was in-Christ. As a 20something I struggled with thinking I needed to know it all. The Lord let me know in my 30's that I had a long way to go and lots to learn and that was perfectly alright. This was very freeing on a lot of levels. Enjoy!!! The fun has just begun. xoxo Roseanna from Bloomington, IN
I am 32. I feel the exact same as I did in my 20's except I had 4 kids so my jeans are bigger and for some unknown reason my left knee hurts every now and then...and my lower back on occasion:) Seriously, turning 30 was tough for me mentally but God has reminded me that He has blessed me beyond measure and a heart of thankfulness would be a fantastic way to spend my 30's.
Hang in there...you might shed a few rears on the big day.
Allison Lee
P.S. Memphis was amazing. We missed you. I did not recognize your man...did he shave his head?
Tell your mom she rocks and I love a girl who teaches with her shoes off!
Amanda, I just turned 30 two weeks ago. It's amazing how similiar your yearly events are to my own. I was just recalling what your mom said in the Esther series.....a woman only grows more beautiful until she is 40 and then she grows wise! We can still look a "bit" like we did in our twenties.... it's just going to take a little longer. There is something about your thirties where you have a better sense of who you are and what God has gifted you to do. Enjoy the last few days of your twenties!
Sweet Amanda,
My 29th year I dreaded the whole year of turning 30 and getting "old". At 30 I was diagnosed with Leukemia and told I might have 3 years. Today is my birthday and I am celebrating 46! I have now batttled 15 years of cancer and I look at each one as a great gift from God. He allowed me to raise my 3 little one's, be an encouragement to others in their health scares, be a witness to God's sustaining power, and lead me to a woman after God's own heart [Beth Moore] who sparked a fire in me to want to love Him more than anything.
God bless,
DeeDee
They say you have the most energy in your 30s!! Look forward to that renewed energy... :)
Happy Happy Birthday!
One of my best friends and I both turned thirty this weekend. We celebrated by learning from your mom at the Memphis Living Proof Live event! Being at the conference was the perfect way to enter into the next decade of our lives. Happy birthday to you!
Oh Sweet Amanda-
Look at the blessings of this last decade, and all the things God has been able to do in you and through you!!! May you be abundantly more blessed in the next decade, and may He use you abundantly more in the decade to come as well! I love you and your insights so much! Happy Birthday!
In Him,
Andrea
I echo the other siesta's who think being in their 30's is great! I was so looking forward to leaving my twenties far behind. I just turned 41 this year and it really all does keep getting better and better.
Yes my body is slowing down and shows signs of wear but it's all worth it!
Just enjoy every moment. Life is precious.
Have a Blessed Birthday!
Michelle in VT
Oh girl... These years just rock! I'm 34 and I have loved every moment of it... It's like I found myself suddenly after age 30. Eased into my own skin in a way I hadn't yet, and I anticipate more of that as the years slip by.
Plus, my man swears that 30's are the perfect age... When you're younger you want to be older, and when you're older you want to be younger, and 30 is kind of right in the middle there.
I think he's right! So, congrats on joining us perfect-agers. (giggle)
Blessings,
Sasha
Girl. . . let me just tell you. . . I am 32, will be 33 in January, and I love, love, love being in my 30s. I'm just so much more confident in who I am. . . material things and who's who matters so much less to me now than it did in my 20s. My hubby and I understand one another so much more. I am much more accepting of my flaws now than I was in my 20s. Being in your 30s is such a new found freedom. . . in fact, I hear 40 is even better. I can't wait to be there. . . I just want to look like I'm still in my 30s:) Happy early birthday. Embrace your 30s!! You're going to love it!
Amanda,
I dreaded thirty like the plague. You know I had this list "my" list of all the things I wanted to have done before the big 3..0.. but it did not happen. Now looking closer and closer to 32 I realized I am not on my time I am on God's time and it does not get any better than that. You have accomplished alot my friend in the last decade of your life. Can you even imagine what God could have in store for the next... Exceedingly abundant my friend..
Keeping Running the race, we are cheering for ya!
Carrie
I'm 25 and hear 30's are the best. Whenever I ask someone if they'd ever go back to their 20's, they say no, but in your case, it sounds like in your 20's you've done alot of living and loving..... and the best is still yet to come!!! :)
I am almost in the same place only a decade ahead. I feel as if my 30's have flown by even faster than my 20's. I believe it is because you are watching your children grow instead of yourself.
This year on my 39th birthday my loving husband had to tell me first thing that next year your
40th birthday will be on Friday the 13th. That's great!! Sounds like a good time to party!!
Enjoy your 30's they will fly by.
Have a Happy Birthday!!
Happy soon to be birthday Amanda! I'm about a year younger than you so I'm looking forward to reading these responses :) I've heard that the 30s are MUCH better than the 20s. I have focused more on career and extended graduate studies during the current decade and am still single but imagine affairs of the heart to gel more during the 30s. I think that probably happens if you're married, single, a mom or childless... Blessings to you!
I just turned the big 3-0 in June and I honestly love it! Even though there have been a lot of ups and downs in my life lately, I can say that 3-0 is a lot of fun! Look forward to it! Great recap on your 20s!
Amanda,
I turned 30 last December and looked forward to it. So much growning and mistakes in all that joy of the 20s but I was praying for the 30s to be lived out in victory over the the 20s! ;)
Turns out, 2009 (and hence my 30th year) has been so. very. tough. The "stuff" that has happen just has made me look around and go "sheesh!" Am I really old enough for this stuff to be happening to me and the people around me. Help me Jesus! Praise Him for the all that the 20s taught me; they were the foundation for this year.
(I. know.
just the encouraging post you're looking for. sorry =( )
However, I really, really have enjoyed the personal side of 30!!! My children are so much a part of it and the rich, deep, sweetness of my marriage. Those newlywed years are sweet but *tough.* Wouldn't trade it at all that I have now!
And someone mentioned being more comfortable in your own skin...a hearty AMEN. This summer, after some of that *stuff,* I, for the first time in my life, was so happy to be who I was in the place that I was. THAT is beyond any blessing I was expecting this year. Woo Whoo!!
When it comes, enjoy your very special day!!!!! I know there are many people who think the world of you and wish you the very best. Be so blessed this decade!
much love,
rachel
p.s. At LPL Memphis, I was beyond thrilled to hear and see your Mother esteem Curtis' mom so highly in front of all of us. Truly, you are so blessed on *both* sides!!!
For me, the thirties is how old I am.
When I was about 24 someone asked "If you didn't know how old you were, how old would you be?" "About 32" was my answer. They were incredulous, "you aren't even thirty!" "No, but that's how old I would be."
I guess most people would be younger...and maybe when I'm 50 I'll still feel 32. Whatever! It's my age.
I'm 32, and I loved turning 30. First of all, people take you more seriously when you aren't a 20-something :)
Also, the 20s are all about "getting there"--just look at your list! It's very similar to mine. Getting married, getting settled, starting a family. The 30s are when all of that "getting" starts to bear the beautiful fruit of just "being" in the life you've worked to create. Emjoy it!
i've found my 30s to be more contemplative and thoughtful. no matter what temperament one has, a decade of impulsive decisions (whether rebellious or purposeful, positive or negative) gives one much to mull over in the following one! i love being in my 30s. i'll miss it the most. i was 30 when our son was born, so motherhood may have mellowed me some, but i just love life at this age. i still feel youthful enough to try things that seem daring and adventurous; i feel mature enough to "sit at the table" with others and meaningfully contribute to the conversation; i still feel like i'm a babe in my walk with the Lord, and i asked Christ to be my Savior more than 2 decades ago. embrace this time... celebrate it as a "coming of age" rather than a passing of time. Thanks be to God that He has given you 30!
I am 32 (cringe) and I shuddered when I hit 30. It was a time to be a grown up and although I had been doing it for a long time there was no excuse making. I have had great times in my 30's and feel like I have more of a handle on things then I did before. Hope you have a fabulous birthdya dear Amanda.
ok, I can laugh, because I've been there, done that and got the "over the hill" banners, posters, hats, and everything for that! LOL. I thought I'd be impacted by the 30's, but nah. (I got a black trans am with T-tops out of it! LOL), I was told if 30 doesn't upset you, then the big 4-0 will. Nope. Was just as much fun as 30...and 20! Now that I'm, (clearing throat) 50 - except for the fact that we're department heads in a YOUNG MARRIED sunday school class and no one knows who Larry Norman is,(LOL) it's as fun as 30. It's all in your attitude, or lack of. (smile) Just enjoy that ride sweet girlfriend and soak in all our precious Savior has to teach you, and keep sharin' it!!!
sweetjeanette.blogspot.com
What do you have to look forward to in your 30's?
Wisdom. Forever Memories. Contentment. A deeper relationship with your husband than you ever thought possible. A deeper understanding of truth. An even greater respect or your parents. How to treasure friendships.
These are just a few of the amazing things God has shown me for the last 8 years. I just turned 38 last week.
My 30's have been a time where I met and married my husband, had 2 amazing daughters and have embraced my calling to write and really find my place in the ministry of my church. My 30's have been fabulous and I am confident that my 40's will be even better! (they are not far away)
Amanda, I am going to go out on a limb here......
I am 63 yrs old, retired last year. I remember my 30's....raising my children, getting to be a Mom....moved to Hawaii for 3 yrs...had a blast there. I'm from No MI and living with sunshine almost ALL the time was fabulous. Then back to VA to get ready for my ex-husband to retire from the military. 40'2 were a bust....lots of "stuff" happening, not the least of which was a divorce.
Right now, I wouldn't trade my age for anything. I love it!!! Older, much much much much wiser and enjoying being at home once again. What I thought would be no little ones, has not turned out that way as my daughter had to return to work and was a home school Mom and so I took that and the kids over. I am truly feeling God's grace and peace everyday as well as strength that can only come from HIM!!!
Enjoy every minute of your 30's and don't look back. These days will go by so fast as your babies grow!! This sounds of clichest, take time to smell the flowers and revel in these times.
Blessings,
Bible Bunny in NO MI
I recently just left my 30's behind, and I have to say--turning 40 was MUCH harder. In my 30's, I wasn't trying so hard to prove myself as an adult. Life threw me a lot of surprises, but I felt much more emotionally mature than I did in my twenties.
Enjoy this new chapter and this next decade. Trust me--40 is DEFINATELY not the new 30 :)
I gave myself the best gift ever for my 30th birthday. My husband was out of town for the weekend and I was home alone with my boys (age 3 and 6 months). My gift to myself was potty training my 3 year old. The gift that keeps on giving :-)
Amanda, have a very Happy Birthday and look forward to a wonderful decade of the 30's. I'm about your mama's age & let me tell you, we can do some looking back at the past now with clearer vision than ever. I have grown much more in my relationship with the Lord in my late 30's and 40's, He really got my attention later in life. So, you've got so much to look forward to. Much more inner security in who you are & you just don't care quite as much what other folks think about you at any given moment. I really don't think we grow up until we hit 30, so you are arriving, girlfriend. I think women are at their peak in the mid-30's, the best physically and mentally & for sure spiritually, it only gets better.
Now the 40's....well, that's another story, so I won't scare you before you get there:). So, enjoy those 30's to the hilt! You've got those 2 beautiful babies to watch grow up.
Amanda,
I'm 36.
In my 30's my children have gotten to the age when they are not so high maintenance and yet still are young enough to adore me and think I'm great. Those years are fleeting. Enjoy them.
In my 30's I have the opportunity to expose my children to many life experiences that I am young enough to fully participate in and they are old enough to enjoy. The 30's are the years of the young mom any more.
In my 30's I realized that I have gained a lot of perspective and am able to pull from a greater wealth of experience as I make decisions. More experience to learn from = greater wisdom in decision making.
In my 30's I have enjoyed people taking my opinions more seriously since I do have that greater depth of knowledge and experience to draw from.
Enjoy these years, Amanda.
Donna
I'm 32 now...almost 33. My good friend Misty and I met at the very first meeting of our brand new MOPS group in January of '07 and we both got recognized for being birthday girls at the meeting. Everyone got a real laugh when they asked our ages and we were both turning 30. It was a fun night and Misty and I became instant friends. We had a lot of fun raising our little families together but then in August of 08 the Lord saw fit to take Misty home with Him. Every time I complain about my sagging body parts, wrinkles, I am reminded of Misty...and the family who's missing Mama. Every day is a gift! This was a great blog - you reminded all of us about the "firsts" that happened in our 20's and all the ladies encouraged us younger gals to enjoy the present...whatever calendar year that is. So many wise words. My Grandma just passed away one month shy of 95! She was beautiful as we all are. Happy Birthday Amanda!
My thirties are WAY better than my twenties ever thought about being! I am 35 now and I have to say that you become more comfortable simply in who you are in Christ. Some of those insecurities don't seem near as significant and it's just fun to be you! Granted, there's still a lot that the Lord is working on, but it's a much more defined place than the twenties.
Enjoy yourself!
I tell my mom this every year on my birthday. "Finally I am old enough to be taken seriously!" Of course; we both giggle like dorks after I say it because I am far to goofy to EVER be taken seriously... I get that from her...lol And she is almost 70!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!
Love ya, Marcy in Redmond, OR
Timelines are interesting how we measure our lives. 35-met husband at 18. almost 1/2 our lives. 30s you feel more established. We enjoy our parents more as we see them get older where our 20s were more about being "independent". I enjoy being an aunt to my husband's nieces & nephews ages 9 to 25 and even a great aunt to a 2 year old. Seeing our family and friends kids become schoolagers and teenagers. One drawback you have to work harder to stay healthy and maintain weight than in your late teens and early 20s. Lots of things to look forward to this upcoming decade.
I did so enjoy my 30's. All of the angst of my 20's was behind me and I got to settle into my role as wife and mommy to a whole crew of kids (five in all). I experienced life free and delivered in my 30's.
I fell more and more and more in love with my husband and discovered how much I love serving in ministry...especially a kitchen if there is one! I learned to cook and got to be quite good, at least based on familial reviews! LOL! I lost my mom in my 20's and my dad and our little girl (20 weeks) named Rose, in my 30's and while you never get over those loses, I was more grounded in Christ in my 30's than with my mom. I had done Believing God by the time those 30-something loses occured and I knew He was wild about me and would never let me go. I am not so sure I KNEW that in my 20's.
I still cared very much about my figure in my 30's...a size 8 was unbearable to my heart!
Today as the mom of some teenage girls, I don't mind the extra size or two, at least not as much as I mind picking my breasts off of my stomach! Enjoy the lack of gravity while it lasts, it won't forever!LOL!
If my girls can see a mom secure in Christ maybe they won't struggle so much with vanity the way thier mom did.
Now that I am way old...41 this year, I love being middle aged...I just love it. My husband still thinks I am hot and he is the only one I care to impress anymore.
Welcome to grown-up-ness Amanda...you are going to just love it!
I love the 30s! We have three teenagers and it is a blast. We are in a full season of life with them, but what a joy to process their highs and lows together. I love their honesty as they express sometimes they want to rest in the Lord and other times they don't.
Personally, the older I get my heart soars with thankfulness knowing I am one day closer to seeing Jesus! Glory!
Brian and I have been married almost 17 years and I the longer we are married, the more I love him and the more I have to learn about who he is.
Your knees start to soften. You know when you are little and you see your grandma and wonder when you will have lots of wrinkly skin on your knees like her, well it started for me when I was 30...embrace it! My Grandma Paris who went to be with Jesus this summer loved her lines on her face...she called them her smile lines, because it showed she had smiled for years.
I adore Jesus more than I ever have before!
I am 35 and absolutely grateful for each day I have breath.
Happy Birthday Amanda!
Hang in there Amanda,
1 week from today I also turn the big 30. What I feel like God is saying is that we will have the chance to see God in even a more big and real way in our 30's. We may face some bigger obstacles but we will also get to see Him be bigger than those obstacles.
Praying a blessing on you girl!
Esther :)
Well, I just turned 49 so I have all year to contemplate the turn of the decade. Others have said it here but I will too...I think you will love your 30s...you're more settled and confident than you were in your 20's, at least I was and I think that's true for most people. The 20's have some rough edges.
I loved the first half of my 40's as well and am still happy with my age but I must say for women...the body goes a little psycho when it hits the mid-late 40's...it's like I went to bed one night and woke up with all kinds of craziness in the hormone dept., my eyesight, my teeth, hair issues, weight, sleep habits...all things I took for granted in earlier decades. And every woman I know who is my age says the same thing.
Enjoy this time in your life...there's something to love about every age. Happy Birthday!
30s are awesome! I felt like I was finally taken seriously. I became so much more confident and comfortable with myself, not worrying about what people think when walking into the room. I'm now at the end of my 30s and I am absolutely loving these snippets of wisdom that you can only gain through time and experience. OH! And "Runner's World" mag says the late 30s are supposed to be a woman's strongest running years, and I can attest to this! God bless you, Amanda!!!
I just celebrated my 40th and I am so thankful to be leaving the 30s. They began amazing as I became a mom twice in a years time, but after that...wilderness. Numbers in the Bible are important and 40 is the number for suffering. I've experienced pain throughout my life but nothing like what God allowed in my 30s. At my birthday party we celebrated the completion of my 40th year of life and am so excited to see what God has in store for me now.
Every journey is different, so no matter what God has planned for you, travel well. Be sure with every breath, every word and every deed that God is glad you are here and that you bear His name.
As I sit here, my precious little girl who God blessed me with in the midst of my pain, is covering me in Barbie stickers. She has labeled us "Sticker Girls!"
Phil. 4: "I have learned in whatever state I am in therewith to be content."
Happy Birthday Amanda! I think each decade gets better, especially as you grow closer in your relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ, as you already know...
What a week for birthdays! My sister in Christ leading the Esther study is celebrating today! My own birthday is Friday.
Also, actor Stephen Moyer turned 40 yesterday. Stephen is a fine actor and from interviews and articles I've read a very humble and kind man. He is patron of Brentwood Theatre in Brentwood, UK. In celebration of his 40th birthday, we fans AKA "Billsbabes" are donating funds in his honor so low-income students from area schools can attend the annual Christmas play at the theatre. Even his mum is donating.
Amanda, have a wonderful day celebrating with your family!
In Christ's Love,
Mary Ann, Woodbury, MN
Oh I just turned 30 on Saturday. Looking back at your life so far lets me know that your 30's will way more then you can imagine. Happy Birthday.
The Journey Continues ~
Amanda,
Here is what you have to look forward to in your 30's!!
40's are even better!!!!!!
1. Contentment with Self-Image
2. Contentment with Motherhood
3. Growth in Marriage
giving more and listening
4. Finding TRUE FRIENDSHIPS
and letting go of past
acquaintances.
5. Accepting self and letting go
of the insecurity that haunts
us in our tween,teens,20's!
6. Loving the Woman in the Mirror
7. Peace with decision making
WHEN YOUR HEART AND MIND ARE IN SYNC ~ and your arms are reaching out to others....
YOU WILL BECOME THE CROSS & CARRY THE LIGHT FOR ALL TO SEE!!
8. Find a deeper Patience for
husband, children & others
9. Truth will become REAL
10. Siesta's will surround you
with loving hearts and honest
words of wisdom!!
HAPPY "30" BIRTHDAY DEAR SWEET
BEAUTIFUL ~ WISE ~ GODLY ~ LOVING~
AWESOME MOMMY ~ PRECIOUS DAUGHTER~
PRICELESS SISTER ~ PERFECT WIFE ~
DYNAMIC PHOTOGRAPHER ~ WITTY BLOGGER ~ and HEARTFELT SIESTA
AMANDA!!!!!!!!!!!!
With "Heaven Bound" blessings,
Kim Safina
http://www.kimsafinathejourneycontinues.blogspot.com
Happy Birthday a couple days early! As one who is currently six months into her 30's I'm not to sure I know what it holds yet I enjoyed your look back at your 20's. It made me stop and think back on my own.
Turning 30 last month was great for me and I am sure it will be for you too!!
By 30 (last month)I had been married for 11 years, 4 kids and in process of adopting from Africa! Oh, serving our Lord makes things exciting around here!
Here's to 30 more wonderful years, loving our families and passionatly serving Our Savior!!
Life just keeps gettin' better! I feel like you're not one to let grass grow under your feet, so you'll enjoy watching the Mister and the Sister grow by leaps and bounds and love every minute of it. As you teach them new things, you will learn new things, too!
You've touched so many lives in your 20's--I can only imagine what's coming in your 30's, Ms. Amanda! Enjoy making all those new memories...
Amanda! Thank you for this post! It totally echoed sentiments I am feeling because I am turning 20 on the same day as you on October 14!!! As I enter a new decade, it is filled with uncertainty, but I know that God is good and that He has a plan for my life and future!! Thanks for this encouragement! God bless you and your family!
I turned 30 last year and while I have experienced lots of blessings in my 20s, too. I also learned lots of lessons that I hope to never re-learn. Along those lines, I often think I don't ever want to go back, so why not keep moving on?! Another reason I'm grateful for being in my 30's is that it's the age Jesus was when he met his best friends and started his ministry. Though I will never come close to relating to many of the things Jesus experienced and went through, I can be the same age and look at things through that lens like he did...anyway, it may be small but I think it's an interesting thought. I hope you have an amazing birthday with your sweet family!
Happy Birthday!!! I turned 30 in June, and I am loving it. This last year has had the biggest bumps in the road I have ever seen. Tough times that have created beautiful moments with Christ. I think that is the best part of getting older. I know Christ better than I did at 20 and prayerfully will know Him better at 40 than I do today.
Happy Birthday, Amanda! I know God will continue to bless you in your 30's as He has in your 20's! Hope your day is filled with everyone and everything you love!
I'm 37 and I have loved being in my thirties. In my 20s I was still trying to figure out who I was and where God was calling me to be. In my thirties I found out there is freedom in commitment! These last 7 years have been spent as a vowed member of a religious community. I can't imagine being happier or more fulfilled and yet I KNOW - eye has not seen, ear has not heard what God has ready for us. There are more blessings in store!
Amanda, I am praying that His love will continue to amaze you, sustain you, surround you and encourage in - into your 30s and beyond!
love and blessings,
Sister Lynn
I'm a fan of the thirties. I mean, sure, it involves some hormonal shifts and a few gray hairs, but there's something about it that just feels more settled.
For me, it's been the decade where I've learned how to get my priorities in line and quit worrying about things I can't control.
But fyi, your metabolism tanks after 35. So eat now, sister. EAT LIKE THE WIND.
The 30's are great! I have 1 year left before entering my 40's, but I'm not panicking....yet.
In your 20's life is exciting. You're starting everything- job, house, family. It's a decade of firsts. Your prayer life is helter-skelter as you struggle to find some quiet amidst babies, hubbies and jobs. It's also a decade of being broke!
In your 30's you're climbing. Climbing your career, climbing your family as your kids age, climbing in your marriage as you go through "stuff" together. Maybe climbing as you begin to care for your parents as well. Things aren't new anymore, but they are richer, fuller. You're more comfortable in your skin and don't get so worked up about every little thing. Your prayer life gets better as you realize how much you depend on God- plus those kids keep you on your knees!! You're also not as broke!
I'm hoping the 40's are full of goals realized as the kids leave home, and new dreams and beginings as I rediscover life with just my spouse and I. I pray my faith grows even deeper as I begin to have more time to serve God outside my home. I pray that I can use my experiences as a mother of an autistic child to help other moms and kids. The 40's, I hope, will be a decade of giving back.
Each decade has something to offer. I am no longer the "baby" of the group. I actually have younger moms asking for my advice (which is both flattering and humbling). Keep facing forward! "For we are not of those who shrink back and are defeated, but of those who believe and are saved!!" (wonder if that includes being saved from wrinkles??)
I love being 30! 32 to be exact. For me to turn 30 was a new start. I surrendered my heart to the Lord at 27 (9 days from turning 28) so I always said "turning 30 is leaving the stupidity of my 20's behind!" I saw it as a new start, and new way to live my life for the Lord with a new decade:) Needless to say the 30's have been great! Happy Birthday Amanda and may the Lord bless your 30's as much as He blessed your 20's!
Sherrie
Birthday Girl - This was my life verse during my 30's - Song of Songs 8:5 "Who is this coming up from the desert, leaning on her lover?"
It almost makes me cry to type the words. My 30's were not what I expected and not what I would have hoped. They were full, most days to the brim, of profound pain. But I'll tell you what: Jesus proved Himself so real, so close, so funny, so kind - that my memory of that decade is sweet, despite the tears. I learned to love leaning on Him who my soul loves.
I'll pray you a "Leaning 30's" just minus the vats of tears.
You are a sweetheart and deserve to be celebrated!
Warm in Alaska.
A stronger and more confident walk with God.
Your kiddos developing more independence and getting to know their personalities.......which results in more of #1!
More sleep because your kids will entertain themselves.
Love like you've never known with your husband.
Parent/Teacher conferences.
The very interesting world of sports and dance moms.....good luck!
An increase in the frequency of visiting your new best friend - the hair colorist.
Trading in the nursing bra for the bra with a lot of reinforcement.
Spanx
Welcome to the 30s!! You will really love it here!
I'm only 38...ONLY....Lol. It's the best. I remember when I turned thirty and we my office had their semi-annual evaluations at work. My boss made a comment like "Well since your 30..." I can't remember the rest because I was hung up on the beginning of his sentence. What he meant was 1) people respect older, mature people and 2) he knew I had the experience to back up that respect.
I felt like I finally became and adult. Mind you I already had a 10 year old and a 2 year old at this time. None of that seemed to qualify me as an adult as much as the age.
So far it's been the best decade of my life. Older, wiser. Still young enough to go out there and do anything. Smart enough to know there are somethings not worth doing.
CELEBRATE IT GIRL!!!! IT'S A BEAUTIFUL THING.
Happy Birthday
Love, Alisha
The 30s were great. All 3 of my children started school while in my 30's. Believe me those years will fly so enjoy them as much as you can. Happy Birthday Amanda.
Amanda, the greatest thing in my 30's is that my daughters became a little older and more fun to be with. Though bittersweet, wish they could stay tiny, now they love to shop with me, eat out together, and they'll even watch Pride and Prejudice with me! Also, if I happen to get sick, they help me. They laugh at all my jokes, too ... sing along to Christian radio with me ... pray heartfelt prayers with me and for me ... talk great God-stuff ... they've both accepted Jesus as their Savior. So, aging along with my girls isn't so bad! Aging with Jesus is so good!
Love, Shelli
Fort Worth, Texas
I'm loving the 30s, Amanda (although I only have you beat by 2 years). You're more confident, less worried about meeting others' expectations, more secure in your own strengths and weaknesses...I loved the 20s, they were a great adventure, but so far the 30s are as well! The year I turned 30 saw me return to grad school and go to South Africa, which I fell in love with and have been back to 4 times, with a plan to teach and live there soon...the 30s seem like this great hybrid of the anything-is-possible recklessness of the 20s tempered with the wisdom of experience and self-knowledge. I love it. Happy birthday!
Happy Birthday Amanda! Where ever you are be ALL there, enjoy, savor, and have patience, everything and I do mean EVERYTHING changes so appreciate or hang on whichever fits the situation and to God be the glory.
Shalom
It is so crazy how I was so nervous about turing 30. Then God started doing some amazing things in my life this year. He has moved so mightily and quickly, especially with regards to me getting involved with ministry opportunities and with daily victories in my marriage and family. I discovered one day that a lot of ministries began when people entered their thirties- Jesus, your mom, Jennifer Rothschild, etc. So this may be your best decade yet. He is so faithful!
Angels on the Wing,Susie, I just saw the video of "Being a Ministers Wife" on podcast,and it made me feel so humble by my own hearts desire for that, to be a ministers wife.....I so much desire in my purest hearts desire to have a ministry ,my heart is sold out: but she made it so clear, how every human nature thing is under scruteny, and judgement from the church body itself, that weather she dresses well, or if she misses a note of rightness, in the eyes of others, how it reflects upon her husband, and christ, how much she prays just to be herself, I am full of grief over this, for Christ asked us to be reflections of him, but not at the cost that ministry should become stressful, or a overwhelming burden, or denys that man or woman to let Christ shine through their true self, why must we put so much emphasis on the ministering couple, when they too, are only human, and setting an example, well, maybe the example is that we are fit ministers for Christ even in our humanness, for if we cannot be the true selves God made us to be, and hide it behind the rules of religion, I think God would have a fit!!!!!! He made us in His image,let us be at peace with our true selves, and let others see our true ness as going human, for Just as I say, sometimes we must be :"Human enougth to be human enough to meet the human need ."Got it???? It is to be a joy as well as learning and growing, but the ministry of Christ is not meant for us to be something we are not, nor that Christ even asks us to be what we are not,just allow Him to minister thru our humanness, and we may reach more out there,who then can realize, we do not have to be perfect,we just strive to be day by day,glory into glory,and it touches me that she was so honest about the expectations the church puts upon ministers, lets give them plenty of grace, after all, they are just like me and you, saved,Holy Spirit filled, and yes,,,,,,,HUMAN!!!!!Pray for them, compassion for them and His grace is sufficeient, should not ours be also? In Jesus name, amen.....love in Him, Angels on the Wing,Susiexo
AJ... thanks for taking us on a walk through your 20's! God blessed you each year with so many wonderful things! I'm 42 and this is one thing I would say. Try to soak in each and everyday of your 30s..not worrying about the future or waiting for "such and such" to happen. You know how fast your 20's went by? Well, your 30's will go by even faster! And people say your 40's will fly even faster, and so far they are! :( It seems like yesterday I was turning 40! Enjoy watching your babies grow and lovin' on your hubby. Enjoy the places, even the trials, the Lord wants to take you through. One thing I can tell you is that as you age, you will be able to look back and see God's faithfulness time and time again. I trust God more now than I ever have. He has shown His faithfulness and care for me time and time again trough the years and I know He will continue to do so. Appreciate the woman He has made you to be. You are an original! Also..you've got GREAT genes (look at your mom!), so you will always look younger than you are! Oh...and put sunscreen on your face and neck every single day!! This will really make a difference over the long haul! :)
HAPPY BIRTHDAY girlfriend!!!
Love ya!
Missy in SC
There are times I cannot believe that I'm in the middle of my 38th year! It seems impossible I'm this "old". I remember when 38 was old. It's not. I didn't even meet my husband until I was 27, so my babies didn't come until my 30s. I have LOVED my 30s!
In addition to the thirties adding motherhood to my job description, I truly feel like in my 30s I've started to come into myself. I care less about what people think of me and how or why we do the things we do for our family. I'm serving my God with more abandon (although not nearly enough!) than I did when I was younger. Living life has become less about me and more about the people I love, which in the end makes me happier than I thought I could ever be. The insecurities and fears that come with "coming of age" are gone and we're just living our life as God has set it before us. All that despite the fact that very little of where I thought I would be at this point in my life has come to pass. He has opened my eyes to things I could never see in my 20s b/c my 20s were far more focused on me than my 30s are - but I still have a long way to go! I'd like to hope that by the time I hit my 70s I'll be much more adept at this process of reaching out than I am at the moment...but I'm loving the start of the journey! Thirty is nothing to fear - I promise!
I'm 33 and this year has been the biggest 'change year' yet. (I have 3 kids age 6 and under) It seems that God is certainly in the process of ripping apart those messed up parts of my heart. My husband and I are in counseling, because it seems that after 10 years being married, we still don't have it figured out. : ) But we want to figure it out and not be another statistic. My older sister told me that the sex drive peaks in our 30s. I have yet to experience that. : ) And yeah, our bodies begin to show age.
Amanda -
Sweetie...aint nothin' but a number
Happy 30! I don't have any advice for you, because I'm not quite there yet, but I'll be following right behind you in February:)
I learned something funny the other day, though. Your husband's college room mate, Justin Arbuckle, was my sister-in-law's best friend growing up. I think he may have gone to India with y'all? Anyway... It's a small world!
I'm 31 and have to say I was completely dreading 30 when it came...probably because I thought I would be where you are when it happened (married, mom of two) and I was (and still am) waiting on all of that. But even though things didn't turn out as I would have planned if I'd been running the show, I have to say the 30's have been so much fun! This past year has been the single best year of my whole life. I think I know more of who I am now and can just enjoy being ME. And I hope the same happens for you! Happy birthday!
Happy Birthday!!
I am 34. Sometimes I miss the 20s, but honestly, I have never enjoyed life more than I have in the past few years. Like you, I have my little family of four. A sweet son and a beautiful daughter. I feel like I finally have all those kinks of growing up and "finding myself" worked out and can just enjoy this place where God has led me.
Enjoy your 30s, dear siesta!
i have to agree quite a bit with carla!! i'm 35, and for some reason, 35 was harder for me to deal with than 30. however, one of the fun things i've found about my 30's is that i FINALLY feel like a grown-up! people at church no longer seem to regard me as the college girl who suddenly showed up on the scene! i'm a mother of 2 (two boys, 6 and 5) and i have FINALLY seemed to find my 'mom voice'...i didn't think it would ever come!!
my 30's also seem to be a time of rediscovering my body!!! who's body is this??? my body has never done some of these things, reacted in some of these ways, or 'shifted' like it has!!
it's all just a new normal, and i totally love it!!!!!
:-)
First of all: Happy Birthday, I hope you have a wonderful time! I just got back from a ladies retreat over the weekend, where we did Loving Well...and we all just loved the part where your mama announced she was going to be a grandma for the first time!
Ok..so the 30s..(I am 32)... Well, look forward to hormone levels going down :( This can kinda stink, but then I think I'm hopefully closer to the final days of a monthly visitor ;-), We do become wiser..and one thing I do like about 30s is that you seem (or I do) to be more of a "grown up"..meaning..sometimes people think the 20s are the years of playing and learning and maturing, etc..and that isn't necessarily true for all of us. I guess we seem to fit in more w/ the older ladies by the time we're thirty. Enjoy it sista! oh..and take some glucosomine..cause your knees begin to give out too! ;-)
Blessings...for another 30 years!
Alyce B, VA
Amanda,
I never went through the turning 30crisis that some do.
I'm 38 (will be 38 in a couple of months). I have been married over 17 years and have a 15 year old daughter. I do have many health problems but that has nothing to do with my age. I've loved being in my 30s. You are more mature and make decisions based more on experience. It is kind of different at times because all of a sudden you are usually not the youngest one at the office or in a group. The first time someone younger comes to you for marital or parenting advice it seems strange because you are considerd an adult with expierence all of a sudden, you are no longer "just a kid" :)
Relax, continue looking at all you have accomplished and all God has provided. Then just imagine with great anticipation what He has in store for you and Curtis.
Have a happy birthday.
Oh to be 30 again. I'm long past that and almost 50 but my thirties was a great time. It's exhausting because your raising your family but your settled in other areas of your life. In your thirties you strive to arrive - always trying to get the next "thing." The bigger house, the better car etc. I compared myself to my contemporaries and tried to see how I matched up. What a waste of time and come the 40's you realize all that "stuff" doesn't mean that much. You think about downsizing and simplifying your life! My advice to you would be continue your walk with the Lord (the most important thing), enjoy your family (the dust and housework will be there tomorrow), and be thankful for what God has provided.
Well, take it from a siesta who will be turning 40 in 18 days...30 is not so bad. I learned to calm down...to enjoy life as the good LORD gives it...and to not be so uptight about things that don't really matter. I hope you have a wonderfully blessed 30 year birthday!!
Much love,
Tisha
Oh the 30s?! Baby, you'll love it! I'm over 3 years in. Here's why they're great - all those things you could have been? Ain't gonna happen - ballet dancer? Too late. Olympic athlete? Too old. Miss America? Disqualified. A little bit of cellulite? I EARNED it! All joking aside there is much freedom in knowing who you are is who you are. The 'pressure of potential' starts to fade and you learn to enjoy life as who you are and what you have, not what could be. Welcome, happy birthday, and enjoy!
Amanda, I don't think you have to worry about this, but I finally learned how to do my hair in my 30s! I'd lived in humid Georgia or Texas all my life and tried to manage a mange of thick, wavy hair using all the same techniques my girlfriends used on their straight, thin locks. Finally, I got comfortable in my own skin and learned how to do my own hair my way! Huge thing for me!
But seriously, I think your 30s, and subsequently your 40s, is when a woman really starts coming into her own. That's when you get enough bruises and bumps to be just as real as the Velveteen Rabbit, but you also learn how to move gracefully with all the limps you have acquired from life. Raising your children gets harder (I'm not going to lie to you), marriage gets testier, ministry gets more demanding, and other people in your life (grandparents, parents, siblings, friends, etc.) start having REAL problems that you are never quite ready for. But God is good and sweet and patient through it all. And you learn so much more about how all-sufficient and loving He is. MMmm.
Don't be afraid, sweet Amanda, life just gets better with age if you let it!
I think my 30s were my favorite decade so far. My husband and I were "older" when we married - he was 26 and I was almost 28. He was attending college, so we put off having a family until he was gainfully employed. I was 33 when our daughter was born, 35 when our first son was born, and almost 39 when the youngest son came along. Sooo, my thirties were filled with experiences most women have in their 20's. However, I wouldn't trade those years for anything. I was a stay-at-home mom, and I LOVED my babies!
Here is a funny story about the year I turned 30: I worked in the admissions office of the university my husband attended. There was a work study student in the office who was pregnant - young, unmarried, and very worldly. A few days before my 30th birthday she noticed the picture of my husband that was on my desk. She asked me lots of questions: was that my son (!!!!), was I worried that a young college girl would steal him from me, and was I jealous of him being with other women in his classes. At first I was really upset that I looked OLD, but my coworkers put my mind at ease. On the day of my birthday, they sang "Don't Worry, Be Happy" instead of the regular birthday song.
In my thirties my inside matched more with my outside. I also found that with more wisdom (being older) God challenged me in greater ways than my 20's. Those journeys of my thirties have now become my testimonies in my 40's. Enjoy the ride...
First, Happy Birthday Amanda!
I'm only 33 and can say I'm not hating it so far. I'm more confident and secure knowing who I am, even though that might not jive to well with others and who they think I should be. I have more of a real, growing relationship with God. I think you'll find it'll be great. God Bless you and thanks for sharing your life with us.
Well, Jesus began to minister at about age 30. That touched my heart when I turned 30. When I turned 33, I was touched b/c that was about the age He went to the cross.
Thirties are great b/c we're more seasoned by life. I haven't been as emotional as I was in my 20's. I've been more grounded and able to stand up under some trials that I would have been unglued by in my 20's.
In my 20's I was young and attractive but I couldn't enjoy it b/c I only saw what I wasn't. I may not be as "pretty" now but I feel more beautiful b/c I appreciate who I am.
Marriage has been more fun. When you say how many years you've been married you do it w/ a smile.
Something fun in your 30's is when someone thinks you're still in your 20's. Or better yet thinks you're still a teen. Pure bliss.
Marriage at 30, baby at 33,35 and another one at 36! Should I say anymore? A great time in my life...continues to grow even in my 40's.
Love each decade...they just get better.even when it's hard, it's still good...wouldn't want to go back in time for ANYTHING! Each year with Jesus just gets sweeter! You will be surprised at how awesome the 30's are!
I just turned 38 last week and I must say, I have absolutely LOVED my 30's! Yes, the metabolism does slow down dramatically once you hit 35. But that just makes you find time to work out more. Or pick up running in my case.
One major thing I love is that I am much more purposeful. With my children, with my husband, with my friends, and with my service to God. I was always frenzied and scattered in my 20's - it may have been because of little ones. However now, I'm so much more comfortable in who I am and why I'm here. Wouldn't trade it for the world! Enjoy it!
30s...enjoy them, don't rush them. I was always in a rush to grow up more, to be more sure of myself, to see my babies grow...Hindsight is 20/20 and how I wish I had relaxed and savored those times, those precious, precious times. Now I am 50, happy as all my life circumstances allow, still madly in love with my husband. But, those 30s...they are still a time of innocence in a way...sweet years. :))
I turned 30 three years ago, and it was by far, the best birthday age I have ever had.
My hubby and I have been through the ringer marriage wise, health wise, career wise, umm.. life wise..haha. So turning 30 and getting to put all of that behind us was so liberating. I finally felt like an adult too. :)
Of course God used those years in our 20's to shape and refine us a ton.. of course He did! I wouldn't take it back.. Though it nearly killed me (literally and figuratively).
Happiest of birthdays to you!!! I pray your 30's are as memorable as your 20's!!!
It is not too far off that I will be able to write a post like this about going into my 40's, but I will still revel in my 30's for a bit longer.
I will just say that 30's have been the most awesome decade for me. Especially spiritually. I feel like it has been in the 30's that God has truly opened my eyes to see His Truth, and there is nothing sweeter.
Welcome to the 30's Amanda...
Kim
As a 50 something, I feel most days like I barely remember my 30's. But I felt like I was finally an adult. I can't tell you why exactly, but I remember feeling like the 30's were going to expect more grown up behavior from me. Truthfully, I rarely feel like I'm in my 50's, but I still have a pre-teen in the house. When you start late and finish late having your babies...it sort of makes you feel younger (or older, depending on the activity) than you really are.
Bless you a million times over, for your ministry to us women, whatever our ages.
Melana
Your thirties are a time of freedom, you seem to quit caring about what others think of you (I mean we are still women so we still care a little)
And you begin to really value quality over quantity.
I think I at thirty something am really getting to know the real me
OH AND HAPPY BIRTHDAY
Amanda, my oldest son will turn 30 on Oct. 27- therefore, I have a "feel" regarding your time frame- Wow and congratulations on being the marvelous young woman you are and will continue to be.... We are blessed by your birth and life, young lady! I remember turning 30- I was pregnant with my son, your age- I thought I had lived a life time- I know you have just begun your journey- and as your mother tells us" Girls, this thing goes fast"- I am thrilled you, your sister and so many others will continue to bring healing and God's grace to women "world wide", just by being you- God Bless you and many blessings to you and your loved ones- we are grateful your precious mother brought you into this world. Kathy, Austin
Amanda:
What a wise question!
I had my babies at 26 and 29, also. Only I got a double dose at 29! Gaining my husband and three great children were the greatest part of my 20s.
Spend your 30s focused on your family. These are pivital years in all of your lives and everything else will still be there when they head out of the nest. But the time you pour into your children and husband in the next ten years will make the rest of all your lives a blessing.
My biggest regret is that I spent too much of my early 30s worried that I had to prove that I was Wonder Woman. Thank God that he straightened me out! I eventually reprioritized and said that until my kids are grown, if I am going to put energy into something it has to also benefit the growth of my family.
I am now in my 40s with three great teenagers who love the Lord, respect and serve others and have a vision for the future. It is not always easy, but life is fun and my children are a blessing. My empty nest is beginning to come into focus and it is looking pretty good. I have a great man to share it with and three kiddos who I can't wait to see how God is going to use them.
The funny thing is...while I was spending that time growing a great family, God was growing me! As I am slowly letting the reins out on my children, God is slowly beginning to open doors to the next stage of my life in ways that I never dreamed possible. I can't wait to see what he has in store for my 50s and 60's and ...
Have a great birthday!
Tracy Drake
Fort Mill, SC
more learning. discovering. perspective. wisdom. learning to chill.
I think God shaped me the most in my 30's it was an incredible ride, but I love the way I came out of it.
Embrace your 30's! Dream, laugh and enjoy each and every day. Personally, my 40's are my favorite, but when I was in my 30's I thought they were my favorite. I'm choosing to make every decade my favorite and thanking God that I am who he created me to be. Happy Birthday to you Amanda.
Cindy Tomisich, WY
I finally felt like a grown-up when I entered my 30s. Although I had already married and had two children in my 20s (just like you) I discovered it is in the 30s when we become real, live women. I am not as thin as I once was, and I can see the tiniest beginning of crow's feet...and still I feel more beautiful than ever. My husband looks at me like I am more beautiful than ever. It's because with age comes wisdom, a deeper relationship with the Lord, and a better appreciation for the simple. Welcome to 30, Sister!
Amanda, 32
oh my 30s -- those were some incredible years. I had my girls at age 23 and 29 -- so 30 started out with a baby and a first grader. These were the years the Lord used to mature me. I loved them. I made lifelong friendships, fell even more in love w/ my hubs, and watched my girls grow. Precious times.
My 30s were when I began to get a true sense of my identity. I no longer tried to fit the mold of 'perfect Mom' or 'perfect wife' or 'perfect Christian' and I embraced the me called created me to be.
I began serving in Women's ministry in my 30s and it's the time when the Lord called me to a ministry of writing and speaking. My 30s were my time of growth.
I tell most anyone who will listen -- I loved being 30 -- mostly 35 and on. That is the time when I really began to understand my life in Christ and the power of what that means.
Enjoy your 30s, they are a precious time and the days ahead will be wonderful and exciting.
Happy Birthday.
Oh Amanda, you're headed into your 30s, and I'll be headed out in a few short years! I would say one of the best things about my 30s is the confidence in the roles God has called me to have. It's not a confidence in myself but in God and the way He equips. I've been stretched more than ever to step out of my comfort zone, but what a blessing because my relationship with Him has deepened just as often. I guess these things can occur at any age, but it does seem to be a common thread among most of my 30-something friends. Your kids and your God will make sure you never have it all figured out, but by His grace, you will discover some new things about yourself, your husband, and your kids. Enjoy! LeAnna
I got saved at 31 years of age!!
I found this to be a time of letting go of the things that I had thought were so important, like perfection, and learning about the most important, like relationship,. . . and I am now almost 50 and find I still have not learnt it all!! People I talk to never long to go back. . . so that should say something!! By all means, have a Happy Birthday!!
I've not been "in my 30's" for long...I have about 3 weeks until I'm 31...but probably the best thing so far has been: a beach vacation with two super kids, but WITHOUT a Pack & Play, sippie cups, a bouncy seat, diapers, floaties, a portable booster seat, a ginormous diaper bag, multiple containers of strained peas...you get the idea! :)
Although I had a hard time with turning 30 two years ago I have to say I am enjoying my age. I honestly feel so much more comfortable in my own skin these days. I really don't worry what people think of me anymore. I just want to be who the Lord wants me to be and made me to be. I am also much more comfortable and confident in my relationship with my dear husband of 11 years. We are connecting in a much better way and are much more understanding of who we each are. Blessings on your 30th!
Amanda, I loved my thirties. I can still remember the surprise birthday party that my husband gave me, my kids were in the rattiest pjs(and they had great ones) and it was a very special party. My kids are now 34 and 32, and it's really weird for them to think of how old they are because they remember that party so well.
I loved my thirties because we made so many great couples friends,
the kids were such a busy and fun age. We bought our first house (we had lived in ministry houses).
The thing that I think that you will find, is that every year of your life you'll pretty much feel the same, only you'll look in the mirror at some point, and realize that you don't look the same. :)
30's are great, you're mature enough to not make so many mistakes and young enough to have the energy and enthusiasm to make the plans work. God really blessed that time in my life and I will always look back on it as a great decade. He's still blessing me!
Enjoy yours, dear Amanda, and may God become even more important to you each day, into the decades that follow as well.
jg
Happy Birthday, Amanda! I loved turning 30! It was 31 that was devastating! :)
Hey! this BLOG is a great gift of your decade to us siestas and we will be blessed to enjoy another decade walk with the birthday girl ! Happy Birthday, Amanda!
My 30's were great. I met my husband a few months after I turned 30. We married a few months after I turned 31. My children were born when I was 33 and 35 with my last born when I was 39. I'm looking at 42 in two months and can't believe how fast time flies. I can't wait to see what the rest of my 40's will be like. So far, they have been great!!
Amanda, it is so wise of you to stop a moment and reflect on the past decade and ponder some of things you would like to see on that summary of your 30's ten years from now. It's nice that you've achieved so many of the adult "firsts" (and even got one kiddo of each gender) and had some adventures because you don't have to be striving for those things now. You get to enjoy life unfolding and your own growing.
We're all so individual (thank you, God!) that I believe it's hard to generalize about experiences by decade. In fact, I seem to end up defining what's happened in my life by half-decades. I was trying to think what has been most important to me when I was in my 30's. One key to me that I didn't note had been stressed in comments so far (apologies if I missed it) is about your girlfriends.
It's easy to get caught up in the routines of life and end up developing friendships with those you consistently encounter as you enjoy the life right in front of you (like fellow mommies). Yet consciously take time to maintain and grow the treasured friends you just know should be your lifelong friends. Make time for them and be sure they make time for you too! Like your sister, you need those people in your life who "knew you when" - the ones who have enjoyed your journey with you. They are the ones you can laugh and cry with about what you've each accomplished along the way. The ones you turn to when you're in desperate need. The ones you think to call that "only she will understand how hilarious this incident was". Imagine yourself at 70 and who you see getting together for a girls weekend then.
~Lynnette in Houston
About this time, you realize that you are - at least to some degree - living the life that you chose for yourself. It was not simply chosen for you by others.
Looks like you chose well!
One of the best/worst things to arrive during your thirties...
CARPOOL!
Take your mom's advice and just love on 'em while they're trapped, um - I mean riding, in your car!
Today is my 36th birthday. I joke about not wanting to be another year older, but the thirties have been awesome! Just in the last year, I have celebrated 10 years of marriage with my man and established a relationship with a family member I thought would never be a part of my life. At the age of 32, I finally let God break down walls around my heart I didn't even know existed. It was through the Beloved Disciple study, too. There have been so many good things about my thirties. I hope you enjoy them as much as I have. Happy Birthday!
One of my favorite birthday cards was one I gave to my sister on her 39th birthday. On the front was a picture of a goat climbing a hill and it said "Don't worry, you're not over the hill yet..." When you opened it up, the goat had reached the top of the hill and it said "At the tippy, tippy top looking down, maybe..."
Don't worry, Amanda, as someone else said, the best is yet to come. My thirties were full of amazing growth, difficulties, joys, sorrows - a total adventure. And at 42, I think I'm liking my 40's best of all - so far. The 30's are great. Embrace it and remember, Jesus' ministry didn't kick into gear 'till His 30's. Just imagine what He might want to do in yours! Happy Birthday, Amanda. Much love to you.
Dear Amanda, this is away from the subject post but it is on my heart and want to share it...last night I saw Week 5 of the Inheritance at my Monday Bible Study that I attend. Your Mom was teaching about how precious God looks at us (he IS MY portion and WE are his portion)that alone is HUGE!! I was talking to God early this morning and I said God, I am just going to concentrate today that YOU are my portion and I am your portion. Like your Mom said it does NOT get any better than that. I appreciated the teaching so much, she was talking about how you all are best friends which was so sweet.
I am thanking GOD today for bringing the Moores into my life. I am thankful for this blog to share with you guys and my siestas.
Thanks for everything you all do in the name of Christ!
Being grateful,
Rhonda Siler
Kalamazoo, Michigan
I would not want to go back and relive my thirties. I wish I had known then to let go of the quest for perfection in my home, my work, my kids, my marriage, my life. That ceaseless striving eats you up. Now that I am two decades older, the best advice I can give you as you turn thirty is to enjoy life and all its ups and downs. It is in the imperfect moments that you create the best memories for your family. It is in the reality of life where you find the most joy. It is in your children's humaness you will see God. In your husband's inadequacies, you will understand that only God can fill your needs. Don't try to change your children or your husband. Instead, embrace whatever comes knowing God's Hand is in it. Laugh, pray, love. A lot.
Hmmm...I just turned 30 a few months ago, so all I have to say is that it's not that bad. ;)
Hope you have a wonderful birthday and a year full if the awareness of the Lord's presence in your life.
The best thing about 30's is that it's not 40's!
I turn 30 on Saturday! I'm not sure I'm ready - I feel like there's so much more I should have accomplished by now.
Happy Birthday!
I'm looking at 30 - from my 50's!
Each decade brought so much to me. My thirties? Well, I had 4 children in my thirties. My deepest joys, my word what a mess! Loved it tho. Went through some real lows and some incredible times of discovery. Tired doesn't begin to express it. Couldn't find any time or energy to be a "deep" christian, but discovered that my high priest ministered to me while I was washing dishes. He fed me his word. Brought scripture to my mind I had never learned... incredible. He was faithful.
My forties... I remember the biggest blessing was being able to say to my 4 girls "get in the car" and they actually could do it by themselves!
50's... being able to see God's faithfulness... enjoying the fruits of hard work as a mom. I am SO enjoying my children. Yes its been hard.... but SO very worth every second of work. Now enjoying the fruits of 40+ years of learning from the Lord Jesus. My, my, my there are so many blessings!
Happy Birthday Amanda... the best is yet to come!
Heidi McClain
Well, I'm not all that much older than you but middle thirties will suffice. Everyone around me spent the 6 months before I turned 30 trying to set me up for a mental breakdown of some sort. No one shared anything good with me about turning 30. The night of my 30th birthday, June 27th, was spent completely submerged in service for God. We were smack in the middle of VBS week and I didn't have time to "worry" about turning 30. I was surrounded by children, who all wished me a happy birthday, sang to me AND brought cake and further surrounded by the most wonderful Christian family that a girl could ask for. In short, 30 was AWESOME for me!
I can honestly say that there is something about turning 30, and getting out of those twenties that elevates you to a new level as far as what people expect of you, especially as a female. I've noticed that folks tend to expect more out of you once you hit that age because they feel that you should have left the foolishness of life behind and be grounded in who and what you are. Sometimes that is a good thing and sometimes a bad thing. In my case, it was a great thing. I breezed right past 30 and haven't looked back. Now, my sister is turning 30 in February and she is already freaking out about it. Heck, she freaked out about turning 29. Oh well....
Wishing you as awesome a 30th as I had!
In Christ,
Stephanie B.
Douglasville GA
Happy Birthday, Amanda
I am just a bit above the 30's but found them very memorable raising our three kids, 1 just starting elementary at the end of my 30's, 1 in middle school and one starting high school. Yes, I spent a lot of time driving them around but equally spent a lot of time camping with Girl Scouts, at the soccer fields, dance, plays, chorus. I was too busy to know that I was tired. Most days just elated to have my three kids. I look back and wish those days were still with me. The youngest now in college, the middle one just starting a new career, the eldest married with someone new for me to spend time with. (#1grandchild). Enjoy your 30's, don't think of it as I am old now. You are just beginning a journey that your Mom probably looks on with the same fondness I do.
Honey, it just keeps getting better and better! I'm 37yo. I had my son when I was 27 and got saved two months later! It's been an incredible journey ever since.
I look back at my twenties and wish I could change all the messes and mistakes I made before I gave my life to the Lord. Now, I'm just enjoying the journey God has set before me of being a wife, mom, and disciple. I'm always learning and growing.
Now, I am looking forward to 40. Most of my friends are a little older than me and they tell me that 40 is when you finally get your groove!
Happy Birthday, Amanda!
I have really enjoyed reading the comments on this post! I can relate to so many of the things that were written.
I just turned 37. So I am approaching the big 40. Turning 30 really wasn't a big deal for me. Turning 35 was a little harder!
Some things about thirty...
You are no longer in the young marriage couples Sunday School class.
Your child's age determines the adults that you are around. Which is really cool...some will be older with more wisdom and some will be younger and you get to share your wisdom.(What little I have!)
I've had to color my hair more often!!!!
I've had to exercise a little harder to maintain things!!
I've learned to be more flexible...still have a ways to go with that one.
I appreciate my husband much more than I did in my twenties.
I could go on, but those seem to be the top 6 things.
Hope you have a Happy 30th birthday!!
Blessings,
Mary H.
Ardmore, AL
Personally, I think youth is highly over rated. Am currently in my mid-40's and wouldn't trade it for anything. Yes, occasionally, I happen to glance in the mirror and say "WHO IS THAT?" :-) But, the wisdom you gain just from life on the planet, not to mention the beauty of coming through many of life's fiery trials and the absolute beauty of seeing our God once again prove faithful, is so incredibly precious. You have so many wonderful things to look forward, Amanda! Happy, happy Birthday!
With love,
Gretchen
Thousand Oaks, CA
Happy Birthday Amanda! I can honestly say that life just gets better and better as you get older. I am 52 and have especially enjoyed 40 and above. Being in your 30s for you will be a wonderfully sweet time because you will watch those babies grow into elementary and junior high kids! Enjoy each and every day, each and every moment. Our lives are so precious.
Hope your day is extra special - have a great celebration and Happy Birthday again!
Forever His,
Lawan
Phil 4:8
Amanda, I turned 30 in July and it has been no big deal. I know it's different for everyone but I have found it to be kind of a relief. I feel like a grown-up now! It has also come in a time when I'm finally resting in my identity in Christ and in nothing else. I say sit back and enjoy it sweet girl!
Happy Birthday!
Amanda in TX
If you get any unwanted pounds while in your 30's be sure to llose them before your 40th birthday!! It is easy to loose weight in the 30's. So very hard for me in the 50's! Happy Birthday to you and I wish you many more years to serve and love Jesus. He loves you so much and I know He is pleased with your love for Him. Lov eya , Vicki
Amanda,
I am currently 38, and I admit, I had been very stressed about turning 30, but then God allowed me to witness something that put it all into perspective...
My husband's brother was a year older than me, and boy oh boy did I have a wonderful time chastising him on his 30th Birthday! I'd had so much fun, and was admittingly looking forward to him returning the "favor", despite the angst I felt over my declining youth. But 3 months before my 30th birthday, he was in a horrible semi-truck accident. As he lay in the hospital, brain dead, but still in a living body, the doctors kept saying "It's that young heart. His heart is just so young that it does not know it's time to stop."
I was slain. Instantly, God used a tragedy to teach me that "youth" is real. That 30 is not old. That there is a LOT of life left after turning 30. And, no matter what, He is in control. All I can do is rest in Him and live my life for Him as best as I can, and He will take care of the details.
One good thing I have learned from actually living out my 30's these past eight years, is a sense of satisfaction with letting God lead my life. It is by no means "perfect" but there is more peace with knowing that I don't have to control it. And the other big blessing is that I still do look good and can claim the hope that "age is just a state of mind"!
Have a blessed end to your 20's!
Shelly Story
Wausa, NE
I dreaded turning 30, but it hasn't been that bad. It has had its ups and downs and any time in life does. I'm still in the 30's, but I can say that I really started depending on the Lord in my 30's. He has shown me miracles and brought things back to life that I thought were dead. He has blessed me with my second child in my thirties when I most certainly thought I would only have one child. He has moved me from the small town I loved into a bigger city and moved me from the comfort of my church that I loved to a much bigger church. But, He has been there all the time. I think He makes us a little more confident in our 30's. Confident in Him, but also confident that we are not kids anymore, but adults that CAN make wise decisions with His help. We also learn that the things we thought were important in our teens and 20's are just not all that important. Happy Birthday, you have a great decade ahead.
For me, it becoming wiser. Losing jealousies and trivialness that I had in my 20's. It is knowing myself more. Loving my husband more. Cherishing life more. Letting the unimportant things go. Not getting upset about things that have no eternal significance.
Hi Amanda! I am 36 and LOVING it! I know you are super busy but I wanted to ask about your experiences in England. My husband (Navy Pilot) and 2 kids (same age as yours I think) JUST moved to England 4 weeks ago. We will be here for 3 years. I just joined a women's bible study at St. Paul's Cathedral in Salisbury and it is awesome. It's sort of a 'city-wide' study with lots of ladies (young and many old) about 75-80 people I'd say. I was JUST thinking that I'd love to introduce a "Beth Moore" study to them because I LOVE THEM ALL!!! I think there's only 2 I haven't done. I even asked my friend here who goes with me, "You think they are ready for a "Beth" study? I'd love to offer that as a suggestion for the Spring (they say they are always willing to receive suggestions :) Anyway, I don't know if you are able, but I'd love to hear about your 5 months in England and where you were and what you loved and what maybe was difficult. Folks here are not quite as gregarious as us open-like-a-book Christians in America but I know God has me here for a reason and I'd love for them to see the fun, amazing, worshipful side of our dear Lord and Savior through one of your moms' studies. If you get a chance shoot me an email at cindymlove@yahoo.com
God bless you! I LOVE the blog!
Cindy (Love) Childers
I loved my thirties. I am almost done with my forties. The best thing during these last twenty years has been enjoying my kids at every age. Now at 19 and 17 they are still my kids but also two of my best friends!
Now I am looking forward to empty nest time with my hubby, and a chance to rekindle our romance. You have much to look forward to for many years to come!!!
Melissa
Asheville, NC
My 30's were years of contentment and blessings. There were hard times financially and in my marriage, friends died, friends marriages broke down, but blessings rained from heaven. Our daughter graduated from high school and I was able to really jump into ministry w/ both feet in my 30's.
Now as my 40's are coming to a close at warp speed, I hope to look back at them w/ awe and thanksgiving for what the Lord did for me just like I looked back w/ love, awe and thanksgiving for what He did for me in my 20's...
In fact I think I will praise Him right now because of Who He is!
Happy Birthday!
I too groaned at turning 30 (I am now 40!...I made it, so will you).
I knew I did not want to act or look like some of the other 30s women I knew...they seemed "stuck" to me...
And I also knew I was too old to act and look like my 20s friends...
What was I to do...???
I pursured what God had for me. I found Him to be wonderful! and I learned more about how He had created me uniquely and creatively...what a revelation and relief! I don't have to be anyone but ME!!! hallelujah! (as a pastors/ministers wife,...this one is huge...HUGE!!!)
Also, a sense of being "settled" and confident. Not arrogant, but confident.
Sadly, this confidence in the Lord was shaken to my core and my identity turned upside down in my later 30's...but that was not due to age, but rather a testing of my faith that the Lord provided me with...He is still working on me...Praise His beautiful Name!
and I am learning a deeper more intimate knowledge of Him...prayerfully...I will be confident and know with out any insecurities agian...just how much I am Cratively and Wonderfully made...
Here's to a wonderful and exciting new decade...Happy Birthday!
Hi Amanda!
I'm 38 today (October 13), so from one October baby to another, happy birthday!
You won't find your 30's much different than your 20's, so I wouldn't be too worried about turning the big 3-0. I will admit I did, and sometimes I dread turning 40 in two years, but that day will come whether I want it to, or not!
Although I can't directly relate to your life, being single, never been married, and having no children, I can say that being in your 30's really says you've grown up. You're wiser about life and the challenges it brings, and you probably stop to think things through a little more than you would have 10 years ago. Well, I know I do!
I'm sure that you'll grow in your role as a wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend.
And you'll find yourself doubly blessed in that you can mentor those younger than you, but you will still want to be mentored by those older than you, too. Regardless of age, one is never too old to learn something new!
Maybe you might become more concerned for your parents as they get older (as I do), or for your children as they step out into life, but just as you did in your 20's, just take each day as it comes.
So if you want to hang onto 29 for as long as you can, go ahead, but really, let go and enjoy whatever God brings for the next decade. From what I gathered from your timeline of looking back, He's done a lot of amazing things in your 20's, so who's to say He won't do so again in your 30's and beyond?
I can't help but end this by giving you Proverbs 31:10-31, especially verse 12b - "all the days of her life."
Have a wonderful birthday and year to come!
31 God gave me a fresh revelation of Himself and I fell head overheels in love with my Savour ALL over and deeper again! Enjoy your 30's!
It was fun to read your post, Amanda, and, while reading it, to remember a number of your milestones from another perspective. In my early 30s, I was incredibly hungry for more of God and more of His Word, and was therefore blessed beyond measure to be introduced through video to a young woman named Beth Moore. Over the course of my 30s, in addition to God using her to change my life in so many ways and on so many levels, I also had the joy of listening to and watching her family grow. Between books, videos, and conferences, this is my sweet recollection of your last decade (I hope I get them right!):
- Beth telling us her daughter was dating (I'm not sure if it was you or Melissa) and at a mall with the young man. After he told her how much he loved the outdoors, he asked what she loved, and she spread out her arms and said, "This!"
- Beth telling us her daughter had called and said, "Mom, they came!" -- the wedding invitations.
- Your mom telling us how much you love the Jewish people and culture, and how you incorporated that into your wedding.
- Your mom sharing how the night after your wedding, she and Melissa plopped on the bed and relived the whole thing.
- Beth telling us she missed her daughter and son-in-law terribly because they were across the ocean in England.
- Learning through the blog that Beth was a grandma! And being filled with delight when she shared about the first time he called her Bibby.
- Your mom laying down flat on the stage in a video when a picture of her brand new grandson was posted.
- Trying to imagine your house with the red door that you once described in a blog post, and then learning you were moving away from it, but nearer to your mom and dad again.
- Being so moved by something you wrote that I found somewhere online about people leaving us, but like Paul's friends, needing to accompany them to the ship.
- Seeing the beautiful engagment photo of your sister and praying for and rejoicing at the joy and new family members and relationships you all would enjoy.
- Learning you were expecting a little girl and laughing out loud when I read that your mom had only begun to spend money.
- Wondering even to this day if God spared you from having your water break in a grocery store or some other public place. :)
- Being at the Green Bay conference in August and loving that your mom had to get a look at a picture of that sweet little girl projected in Imax size.
It's a great blessing to walk this journey with your family. Thank you for sharing yourselves with us. I pray God will bless you abundantly in your 30s. Enjoy them, it's a wonderful, elegant time in a young woman's life. Happy Birthday! :)
Linda in MN
Amanda..the best is yet to come! I'm a month from 40 and as I look back on my thirties I would love to go back and tell that young woman of 29 to fasten her seatbelt! The thirties for me meant finally finding the groove of adulthood, finally finding my God-given voice and letting go of what anyone else but God thought of me or my actions---most of the time. I faced some tough seasons but through the grace of God and having some living already under my belt...weathered the inevitable storms..stronger and more faith-filled.
Don't buy into the worldly image of age...it is a glory to mature in Christ and in this brief life.
Believe bigger, be bolder, and follow the unique call that God has on your life. You are special and you will shine brighter in the next decade. May God bless your thirties!
It's not so bad Amanda ..... beats the alternative!
Think of it this way: You are finally old enough to have the respect by more adults than you have ever goten before.
Besides I turn the big 5 4 the day after you turn 30! YIKES!!!!
LOL!
What I can say, with age, comes more and more wisdom in the LORD!
30s are fabulous- don't fret! I was hit on my 29th - just suddenly--- I realized it, then...i got up, got over it and moved on... and believe me it's been good. Enjoy the 30s Amanda- wisdom awaits you and experience from your 20s!
Blessings to you on your B- day!!
Enhanced maturity! I made a lot of mistakes in life as a person during my twenties and learned so much from them.
Really, every day of life is a gift from God to continue to do the good works He sets before us!
Always keep in mind that you are in this world and not of it so what does your human age really matter?!
Always give thanks and remember the countless blessings you have as a child of God! Truly! I turned 35 this year and took some time to reflect and give thanks for the truly wonderful life I have! I have had plenty of struggles in life but I am grateful to God for my salvation and wonderful life!
You can also look forward to continuing on the journey of marriage and building that relationship you have with your man even more: make it "real" each and every day and be vigilent to keep the spark a roaring flame between you and your man!
Happy Birthday and God's richest blessings to you Amanda!!
Your 30's are great! You realize that the "American Dream" is a heck of a lot harder than you ever thought, but far more rewarding. You get to deepen your relationship with the Lord everyday and minister to those who need Him everyday (those little ones being the first ones), your relationship with your spouse become deep (and I mean deep) invasive in only the way that the Lord can make ok. You lose some of the things that made you who you were & he will too, only to find out they were things you would throw right out at the beginning if only you knew before that it could be this beautiful & close. I am 32 looking at 33 in February. You get more wrinkles, but each one is from a smile or a laugh or a trial that shapes you and makes you more into the likeness of the woman God intends you to be. There will be hard...HARD days. And having lost both parents last year, I know the weight, but you will be carried. He is your great I AM and He will finish that sentence with your whole life. What a great story it will be! Won't it be fun to share all these stories on the New Earth at that wonderful time!
Happy Birthday!!! ♪♫AND MANY MORE♪♫ ☺
I am now 43. If I could pick any age to be I would pick 34 or 35. In the 30's you are young but you are much smarter.
If there is any baggage left on the interior it tends to force its way up and out in the 30's. But that's a good thing.
Have a blessed decade and enjoy God's blessings!
I love this post! I'm about 3 weeks away from 30 myself! And while I'm a few years behind you on a few things (yeah, and I unfortunately partied like a rockstar the first half of my 20s, but thankfully I'm much closer to the Lord today), I still totally love it! Let's see, as I look ahead at my 30s, I pray God's will is for a family. I was 28 when I married, so we're just starting out. And we want a family! That's what I hope 30 brings!!
At 30 I realized I am Me, and that's ok, I'm not as scared-of everything, I'm growing in the Lord, and enjoying my family!
I loved my 30's, I became much more aware of hearts instead of stuff. I also realized I needed a Savior and fell head over heals in love with my Jesus. I bought my first bible...etc, etc, etc. I loved my 30's and am enjoying the decade God has me in now as well.
Lovingly,
Yolanda
Amanda - I can tell you from experience, being 30 something is great! You are no longerlooked at as being too youthful to know what you are talking about. You have experience which gives you wisdom. Congratulations and Happy Birthday! Now I have to take my own encouraging words and take a big girl pill because I am turning 50 in just a little over a week. Enjoy your birthday.
Amanda,
When I turned 30 my big sister did the sweetest thing for me and I thought you might want to do it for Melissa in a few years.
Every day for 30 days leading up to my birthday I received from a different friend or family member gifts, cards letters and so on. She assigned each person a day and they were responsible for making that day special. I was so surprised each day and had no idea she was doing this. I blessed me so much.
Allison Lee
I'll say here what I've told me many times. The 30's is, hands down, the most beautiful decade of a woman's life, if we were limited to a strictly physical point of view. She sorta comes into herself, gets a bit more comfortable in her own skin, and dresses herself and does her hair the way that looks best on her - instead of going with a style that doesn't. Far more importantly, she takes on a radiance of Christ that can only come with time. Enjoy!! The thirties rule!
Oh, my my...becoming 30 was one of my most dreaded moments in life! I thought life would just go downhill after that. How wrong I was! I have to say that being in my 30's (now 32), I am coming into my own. I'm settling. I'm truly starting to enjoy who I have been created to be. You have received so many blessings in your 20's that I know the 30's are going to be nothing short of magical!
I'm 38... here are my favorite things about my 30s:
1. learning not to cry every time something stressful or bad happens.
2. seeing my husband cry more at the simple things like the kids growing up or a card I give him.
3. Seeing my kids become young adults.
4. having someone tell me, "You don't look 38 at all!"
I wish I had had the confidence I have now when I was in my 20s. I feel stronger, prettier and more loved and I know none of those things changed, but I sure did.
Enjoy!
I too was married at 22 and had my first baby at 26. My next one followed when I was 28, and then I had twins at 31!
My 30s have definitely been more stable than my 20s! God has dealt with some of my junk and baggage, and He pulled me out of a decades-long pit!
And as your children get older, life just gets easier. Going to the store becomes less of a chore, and with girls, shopping can actually be fun!
My husband turned 40 this past week. He says the 30s were a great decade. We met the year he was 30 so I can only assume he means our life together, with all it's ups and downs and our 2 great girls, has been great :) Enjoy your 30s.
I just turned thirty last year...turning 31 this November...so not much experience with them yet BUT...I would say I am beginning to transition into having more life experience and feeling like I have something to offer others in that way...STILL HAVE TONS TO LEARN...but I am loving life and serving the Lord where I am...God bless you in this time...embrace it!
Ahhh...my 30's were the best times of my life! I am in my 50's now and the 40's were good, but I think I came into my own in my 30's
I had three daughters by the time I was 30 my oldest was 10yr, 6yr, 1 1/2 yrs months. I was so much more relaxed with the youngest and my priorities of perfection changed to relaxation, and I just was me.
If I could pick an age to be it would be between 34-38.
I will be 33 on the 27th. So, I'm not that far ahead of you. However, I can tell you that I have felt like I have most enjoyed my role as wife and mommy in my 30s.
I enjoyed it in my 20s also, but I supposed that I still felt unsure of myself.
Best of all, I have enjoyed growing in the Lord AND seeing my children grow in the knowledge of Him. Our oldest, Joseph, accepted Jesus as his Savior just 2 days after my 30th birthday. How is that for something to look forward to in your 30s?! I am praying like crazy for Joseph's 3 little brothers to do the same! I pray that your darlings' decisions will be listed in your reflection of the 30s!
Happy Birthday Amanda!! Although my 30's were not that long ago (I'm 46), I still smile at that decade. Like you, I had my children in my 20's. Recently we've been viewing our home videos of our kids growing-up stage which hits in my 30's. It's so much fun because that decade is filled with lots of fun, adventure and sweet innocence. They love adventure with mom and dad. I recall our first skiing trips together, our vacations, being room mom, making arts and crafts, swim meets, sporting events, taking birthday cupcakes to school.... the list goes on. It can be exhausting but so wonderful. It is also a tender time to share your heart for Jesus. Those precious eyes and hearts that look up to you to hear Bible stories and who love VBS and songs. I miss those days! What a wonderful mother you are Amanda! May God bless your children and your grandchildren for your faithfulness.
Grace and finally understanding the depth of its meaning.
peace~elaine
I have found that having young children when you turn 30 makes a huge difference. I think waiting to have them until our late 20's has kept us young, and turning 30 was no big deal because I was chasing a toddler and soon to have another child. If you are happy with your life, as you say you are, age doesn't matter one iota. you love on those babies and that man and you pray to the Lord in thanks each day because those are the things that matter!!! :-)
Kelly
My 20's were soooo hard. I was married at 20, and divorced at 28. The most painful years of my life so far. I am going to be 32 October 15th, and all I can say is that God has been so good, and my 30's has been by far the greatest! Enjoy!
Happy Birthday Amanda! Not sure of when your birthday is but hope that it is a special one!
Amanda,
For me the 30s are when I finally grew up. In His loving mercy, the Lord rescued me from a pit I had spiraled into from age 20-33. It was a time of maturing and really "getting" Him and who I am in Him. It set in motion & prepared the way into the wonderful life He had planned for my 40s. I am 46 now and continually amazed at how He turned my life around & constantly blesses me!
You are enormously blessed to have so much maturity in your faith heading INTO your 30s. Go right now and thank your Mama & Daddy - and our wonderful Lord!
God bless you on your 30th birthday! And thank you for sharing your life with us Siestas. :)
Hi Amanda!
Happy Birthday! I had to post on this one. I just turned 40 this year and I have to tell you that my 30's were my favorite so far. I became a mom at 26 and had twins at 32. Being a mom to young kids has been the most wonderful time of life. I can't speak for my 40's yet but my 30's though filled with incredible "ponsa" were so so wonderful. Wishing you the kind of decade I had.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMANDA!!! I truly hope you have a wonderful day of memories when you celebrate 30.
I'm so enjoying this post! I was touched by Heidi's (missknitsalot) and loved how Linda in MN had her own memories of your 20's through what your mom has shared with all of us.
I wrote a more serious reply already but I thought of something else still important but more lighthearted. But then (another) Beth wrote a post about noon today that touched on it. It was in my 30's that I finally settled and figured out how to dress myself stylishly but learned what looked best on me. I knew whether a trend would work on me. I knew not to buy certain colors of lipstick just because it was in! I knew what looked good on me. Isn't that fun and comforting?!!!
~Lynnette in Houston
I got saved in my thirties! I made some major changes in my life and I became a new person! It was an amazing decade for me!
I think you become more insightful in your thirties and people take you more seriously.
Have a great birthday! I know your next decade will be even better and more exciting than the last!
Sending much love!
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