I turned 37 in August. It is, I find, the ideal age. Young enough to enjoy good health, and old enough to appreciate it. Youthful enough to plan and imagine, and wise enough to execute those goals.

We are through the most intense kid-wrangling years – where sleep is a lottery and constant supervision a must. And we’re not quite into the complicated, teen stage – where identity crises and moody mornings await.

If I were to isolate the overarching lesson of this year, it would be authenticity. Being brave enough to speak out, even when it means inviting disappointment. Being strong enough to weather the storm of standing against the mainstream narrative. Remaining soft-hearted and open despite misunderstandings and hurts.

In some ways, the experience has been brutal, yet in others I feel more alive than ever before. I’m completely aligned, unafraid – shoulders back and face tilted into the oncoming wind.

I feel the ever-increasing presence of the One who matters most, His gentle hand of promise on my life and the hope of a future that seems yet uncertain, but that I trust will be beyond my wildest imaginings.

This is 37. Hear me roar 😉