In The Year of 33
33. It’s kind of a blah sounding number. I wasn’t terribly excited about 33 until I remembered that the number “3” was my lucky number when I was a kid- I always insisted on having it for my jersey when I played rec softball. So perhaps this year will be doubly lucky?
For my last birthday post I wrote about being in love and reuniting with someone- it did not last. But I am grateful for that. If there’s one thing I’ve learned this past year it’s how to stop looking at people with blinders on.
I’ve learned that being unlucky in love does not mean you cannot be lucky again at some point- and many times it’s not about luck per se, but about having the right timing, and knowing what to do with it when you find it. Love comes in many forms, and it’s not always about romance. Sometimes it just about embracing friends and holding them a little closer.
This past year brought so many adventures- my first and second trips to New York City, music festivals, more Girl Meets City trips. Getting accepted into SCAD. It also brought some low points, such as when I thought I might have to declare bankruptcy if I didn’t get a job- because I decided not to pursue anymore freelance clients. But another thing I learned is that right when things seem their worst, something will usually come through. Financially, that happened for me when I started working for The Southern Weekend. I’m very proud of what we’re doing over there- and keep your eyes open, there’s so much more to come.
I’ve been cast in a short film, I got to speak at conferences, I’m currently on a billboard- which is hysterical to me. I bought a car and got a house of my own. I’ve had my heart broken and pieced it together again. I’ve made friends I didn’t expect to make.
Southern Bon Vivant was relaunched from the old Make It Work Molly, and you’ll still see the old URL many times as switching that over is a process, and we went through a lot of new and old writers here. But the site is growing and because of YOUR love of what we do we continue to grow. Thank y’all so much!
One year ago today I also had my Leadership Macon graduation- I miss those people so much, having our monthly meetings was a saving grace to me many times when I was tired of working from home alone. Human interaction is important.
My kiddos… they grow and amazing me with each new day. Always something funny they are saying. Always a new test score to be proud of. Always loving me.
#latergram… We went on a walk in the park!!! #babies #mommylife A photo posted by Molly @ Southern Bon Vivant (@mollymwilkins) on
This year was also bittersweet, a lot of my closest friends moved. People who were there for me when I was just emerging from my divorce. People who I will always hold close in my heart.
All of y’all who are taking the time to wish me a happy birthday by text, by social media, calls, y’all sure do know how to make a girl feel loved.
I’m most grateful to all of the wonderful people in my life. Those who have been in it for some time, those who have reemerged from being gone for a while, those who appeared out of nowhere for an instant friendship, and those who played a quieter role until they suddently were a huge part of my life. For all of y’all I am so grateful, my life would be a lot less rich without you.
And I’m learning it’s ok if friendships form in unconventional ways. Some of the best people I know I’m realizing were Facebook friends of mine first, and then friends face to face. Isn’t it funny how that happens today?
Again- I’m thankful for each of y’all. And, sincerely, all of my love to all y’all
Molly