It's my birthday, and I'm feeling reflective

It’s my birthday, 41 years around the sun, and I’m going to get a little Oprah on you (minus the infinite wisdom and greatness that is Oprah Winfrey ). It seems appropriate this year more than ever, to get a bit reflective and acknowledge the things I know for sure at the ripe old age of 40 + 1. And on a side note, if you haven’t read Oprah’s little book of wisdom What I Know For Sure, you should, it’s full of juicy life lessons, you’ll be dog-earing allllll the pages.

So here goes, what I know for sure (13 for the 13th) -

1. It’s okay to not have everything worked out, mapped out and planned out. Winging life is completely acceptable

2. Knowing what you want to be when you grow up is a myth for most of us. And your career/life path can veer and change course as many times as you damn well like

3. Everyone is fighting their own battles. Never assume you know someone else’s situation

4. A cup of tea makes a bad day a little brighter

5. You don’t have to be the loudest voice in the room to be heard. We don’t all operate that way

6. From a mum’s perspective, doing things for yourself is not selfish; it’s a fucking gift to your children. You’ll be a better mother for it. Martyrdom is so passé

7. Eddie Vedders voice is what dreams are made of

8. Sex is not a bargaining tool in a relationship. It is an act of love that should be enjoyed by both parties

9. Family is everything, but it can also be messy and complicated. Nobody’s family is perfect, no matter how it appears from the outside

10. A nature fix is often the best medicine

11. I can count on less than one hand how many close friends I have, and I consider myself lucky for that

12. The age old quote, ‘comparison is the thief of joy’, totes true. Your uniqueness is your superpower

13. My Nan is a spritely 94 years old, she has always retained her sense of humour and fun, and has always remained curious. I think that, along with her daily glass of port and Michael Buble crush, is the secret to a long life. Maybe I need to start drinking port?

So basically I know a few things, but also a whole lot of not much. No-one likes a know-it-all right? I hope to spend the next 40 odd years with an open heart, an open mind and a curious spirit. And I plan to have a whole lot-a fun in the process…once 2020 pisses off anyway. What would you add to this list?

Spring is coming my friends. Take care out there.

xx Kara

circa 2014 from my son, still relevant