Today, I am 30.

Wow, did I just say that out loud? Yes, I did.

And it’s true and shocking and real.

Honestly, it feels like just yesterday I met Matt for the first time. It feels like just yesterday I graduated from high school. It feels like just yesterday I announced I was pregnant with my first child.

Life is funny like that, huh? Each day seems to drag on and on, but those years fly by.

Just a few weeks ago, I put that I was 24 on an application and had to white it out because, well, that was 6 years ago, Lisa. #mombrain

But let’s be real, 30 is a hard one to swallow for a lot of us. It’s like the first BIG milestone of real aging. Nothing is particularly special about 30, except that it comes with a couple of grey hairs and some wrinkles.

But as crazy as this sounds, I am actually excited to be the big 3-0, and it’s better than any birthday I’ve had before.

Why? (This lady must be insane.)

No, hear me out.

First of all, I am a hell of a lot wiser today than I was when I was 18, 21, or even 25, for that matter.

I sure am a hell of a lot more aware than that arrogant 16 year-old who smashed her gorgeous new car into an innocent driver pulling into a driveway, because I wasn’t paying any attention at all.

The things I’ve learned in my 30 years of life have been valuable to my success, and the experiences I’ve had have really shaped me as a person, both the good and the bad.

I’ve grown my idea and dream into a reality with this blog, and Allie and I work so well together and have so many exciting things to share with you (all in good time)!

Also, I’m old enough now that I can choose who I want to be friends with. No need to play nice with someone because you see them every day in class, even though neither of you see eye to eye. Now, the friends I have are the people I truly enjoy spending time with and want in my life.

I’m also smart enough now to know that I have a lot left to learn in my lifetime.

When I was young I felt like I “knew it all.” Now, I honestly know that I am smarter than I was back then, but I definitely have a long way to go.

Ever heard of that saying, “Education is wasted on the youth”? While I was a top student in all of my classes, I never really cared to learn beyond what was asked of me.

Now, at 30, I can say that I have a thirst for knowledge. I’m always reading and wanting to know more.

You hear people say, “Would you go back if you could?” and my answer is no, definitely not.

While I wish I could get more time with the people who are no longer with me, like my Grandpa, who I miss every day and wish I could talk to one last time, I don’t wish to go back and do my life over.

I love the experiences I’ve had, the people I’ve met along the way, and the lessons that life has taught me.

In my 30th year, I can say that I am happy with the success I’ve created so far, and am ready to go even further.

In my 30th year, I love the people that are a part of my life and look forward to meeting even more amazing individuals as my life continues.

In my 30th year, I am just happy to be alive and healthy with two beautiful girls and a loving, supportive husband.

And really, that’s all we can ask, is to be given as much time on this earth with the ones that we love, and appreciate the memories made.

So, yes, I’m a little shocked that I’m 30, but I wouldn’t change it for the world.

Plus 30 is the new 21, right? I prefer to think so. ;)

I’m SO excited to announce that Allie and I have been working very hard on a concept that we are finally ready to share with the world!

It’s called The Daughter Diaries Boutique Collaborative, a place where mommy-owned businesses can grow, flourish and promote their products that they cherish and create with their heart and soul.

The first two partnerships are LilyRose & Co Designs, an apparel and merchandise shop, and Three Tiny Knots, a handmade bow boutique!

Their products will be launching very soon in The Daughter Diaries Boutique, and we are proud to support their beautiful products and amazing brands.

So, cheers to the 3-0! I have a feeling this will be my greatest year yet!

P.S. I also want to wish my grandma a wonderful birthday. She says I was the best birthday present she’s ever been given, but the best birthday gift I can be given is to share it with her each and every year.