“What day is it?” asked Pooh

"It's Today" squeaked Piglet

"My favorite day." said Pooh

~ A.A. Milne

orange sunrise with pelicans avon north carolina outer banks photography

On the morning of my 38th birthday, I rose quietly and made my way to the beach. The sky was cloudless, which often makes for a dull sunrise, but on this particular morning, the colors created magic, painting the sky bright orange. Flocks of pelicans swooped down over the water as the sun crested the horizon line. I watched in awe, thinking of the past 37 years and looking forward to what my future holds. Many choose not to acknowledge their birthdays, feeling sad or embarrassed of their age. For me, I choose to celebrate the years that have passed and hold on to the dreams that remain unknown to me. 19 years ago, I didn't know I'd be married to my wonderful husband; building a life together, hand in hand. 11 years ago, I didn't know I'd be climbing big mountains as often as I could get my boots on. 5 years ago, I didn't know that I'd have a career as a photographer. You see, no matter what I wish for the future, it's still very full of surprises. Many of the wishes that I have made over the years haven't come true. And yet, I have so much more than I could have ever imagined. So I will live my 38th year much as I have my previous 37, I will live in each moment, full of hope, dreams, love, and doing my very best to find the silver lining in each and every dark cloud. And when I forget to see the bright side, I will turn to my family and friends for reminders of how wonderful each day really is.

On the Morning of 38