she's no baby no more

"She's no baby no more" was a phrase coined by my Italian grandmother and used on me throughout my childhood by relatives who enjoyed pinching my cheeks and watching me squirm under their attention. And I am the baby, the youngest of twelve first cousins save for two of them. But today this phrase feels more relevant than ever b/c it is my birthday. Today I turn 35. Thirty-five. 3. 5. It's a marker, a turning point, as many numbers ending in 0 and 5 are in age. You know those questionnaires you fill out that have a check box next to your age category, well I think I just entered a new one: 35-40. Wow. I'm a bit stunned really. See, I always have been the youngest in most of my circles, be they work, friends, relatives, etc. But over the past year I have been reading about some talented people who are all younger than me, and it's a new experience, one I'm trying to adjust into, fidget a bit until I find comfortable seating, you know? Odd this growing older is. But I do like it. I don't wish to be younger for the growing I had yet to do. I've become so much more inwardly aware and I look forward to seeing myself flourish with the years.

I am celebrating with family and friends today. Lunch here with my family. Sushi for dinner and then happily off to The Grad Club to listen to one of my current favourite bands. I'm feeling very loved and lucky for the family and friends in my life who are taking the time to celebrate with me today. I woke this morning to fresh, handmade cinnamon scones, (one of my favourites) left on my doorstep from my buddy Dawn. How lovely is that?

As for the above image, it was taken on my birthday in 1979. I had a couple of b.day celebrations at McDonald's back then. Anyone remember the chocolate McCains cake they had? Ooh that was special! For those of you who don't know my mug, I'm in the front on the left. My sister is behind me, followed by my next door neighbour and two other friends who lived on my street.

So off I go now. I'm 35. I'm standing right smack in the middle of my 30's and there's only one way out. Nobody move, don't come a step closer, this is my territory for one year. Yup. I'm no baby no more.