Gratitude
Today is my 37th birthday. Like, seriously, how did it become my 37th??! isnt that close to 40? A little too close if you ask me….
at the same time… how did i get to live this life that i dreamed of? that my life list is getting fulfilled? that five years ago — i had dreams of hiking in the Himalayas and in the patagonia andes…. and here i am. doing just that…. go big or go home.
this morning, i work up at 5:50 to watch the sunrise, except i heard raindrops on the tent… no, not the sunrise over fitz roy — i so wanted to see that and sit out and write my gratitudes. My list of 37 things that i am grateful for this year…. so i pressed snooze on my watch and it wasn’t until I saw pink through the tent that I forced myself up.
The morning was beautiful and i was able to start my list…. the top 37 things that i am grateful for this year…. I will not entertain/bore you with the list…. but here are some of the things:
wild and beautiful places
me below cerro torro
my family and friends who support me on this journey – who send me love when i am in all corners of the world and make me still feel part of a circle of friends (you know who you all are!)
happy birthday…. me and all my shit
i am thankful for smiles from strangers, i am thankful for my brother and his humor, I am thankful for good beer and good food — even if I have no idea what I am eating, i am thankful for my body being able to do what my mind asks of it, I am thankful for my mind being reflective and ready for change and growth, i am thankful for the world greeting me with welcome arms.
sunrise over cerre torro
I have learned a lot over the past 4.5 months — i have learned that the world is ready for me, that the world is ready to greet me with open arms, that there is adventure waiting at my doorstep, i just need to step outside. i have learned the kindness of strangers and that people can become my friends and teach me much about myself and the world. it is a great thing.
so, yeah…. 37. i am not where i thought i would be 10 years ago. but, i guess I am right where I am suppose to be. 37. pretty amazing.
cerro torre
right where i want to be
You said it! This one took my breath away.
Happy Birthday Aurora!
I am so thrilled you are living this wonderful dream.
Your experiences are enriching my heart and mind.
Love and peace to you always.
Happy Birthday Aurora! Catch the hug coming your way.
Your courage to learn and to grow takes my breath away. Ii appreciate and count myself lucky to follow your journey.
thanks Mary Lou and Lisa! You know…. having so many good people at my back helps me have the courage to be here. and sometimes it is scary!
But, it is so good to have you all along. i feel the love! 🙂
Such a beautiful post. Happy birthday! I am grateful for your wisdom.
Thanks Kim!!!
Sent from my iPod
Aurora! Happy Birthday to you. Cerro Torre looks so beautiful and amazing. Wishing you a safe climb and more wonderous days ahead!
Happy belated b’day, my friend! Thinking of you from afar as this baby bump grows (6 mos now!). Keep adventuring 😉
Ohmigod – I cannot wait to see pictures!!!!!
Happy birthday Aurora! Your journey is truly inspiring. Enjoy it to the fullest!
Thanks Maura – great to hear from you!
I love this post, Aurora. You really are in a wonderful place — body and soul!