Twenty-nine

I always thought that by age 30, I would basically have my life figured out: I would have a career, have a family, have a house. Last week I turned 29, and I'm suddenly not as sure about this 30-theory. Will I really have things 'figured out' in less than 12 months? Magic 8 Ball says: "Outlook not so good."

Career: I love my job! But is it a career? I'm not completely certain. But I do love what I do: I love the people I work with, the people I work for, and the people I serve. I love the flexibility and the non-monotonous job-description. I love that what I do matters. I love that someday, a kid may grow into a teen who makes the right choice because of a conversation I have had with her. I love that someday, the generation of youth whom I serve may have a positive influence on this world and the generation behind them because of something I have taught them. So, is this a career? The degrees listed on my diplomas may not necessarily be required for this job, but they certainly have helped me along the way. If I consider the synonyms for career -- vocation, calling, work, lifework, livelihood -- then I could confidently say that, yes, perhaps this is a career after all.
Career: Check.

Family: What is a family? Is it a husband, 2.5 kids, and a dog? Well I have a husband....and a cat! I'm a few years out on the kids though...and a dog. Although, half the battle has been won just by finding my Mr. Right. The rest will come in due time.
Family: No check.

House: I have a roof over my head and heat in the winter, but that's not quite what I envisioned for my 'home.' I have one over-sized bedroom with a small walk-in closet. I have a kitchen with no counter space nor cupboards. I have a coat closet that serves as my pantry and chairs that serve as a coat-rack. I have dreams for a house someday, as soon as we can pay off my school loans...at least I have a career!
House: No check.

One-out-of-three. Not great. Luckily, the year ahead is a leap year so I have an extra day before the big 3-0 when I have to have my life figured out. Or I could always become one of those women who turn 29 year after year, in which case I've got the rest of my time of earth to figure things out...I like that idea! ;)