On Turning 30...

Today, in this remote little Dutch town, far from (most) family and friends, I turn 30. There will probably be no surprise party, or mystery visits from friends and family... and yet, I can't help but feel blessed. My life is fully of things (and relationships) that I've "always wanted". Here's what I wished for as a child:

-To have a successful career. Well, I worked at a large, global company, pendling between Europe and America to contribute my organizational skills, while learning more about international organizations. And now my focus is on travel writing, which I adore.
Check.

-To travel the world. As soon as I knew there was a great big world out there, I wanted to see it. We've visited five continents, and countless countries, making friends wherever we go. And although the goodbyes can be hard, they've all enriched our lives in one way or another... and we wouldn't be the same without these special bonds.
Check.

-To start a family, and be a (hopefully great) Mom. Tobi and I will have been married for 7 years this month! Time has flown by, and we've become great travel buddies and parents, and our "baby" will be two in a few months. Hard to imagine!
Check.

-To live on a farm (with horses). Which is where we're at now. Life here is incredible, and every time I watch the sunrise and sunset over the fields and pastures, I can't help but smile.
Check.

An what I find really special, is that my mom and sisters made donations to extra special organisations in honour of my special day. I got all teary-eyed when I thought of the fact that the world is being made a better place just because it's my birthday! Below are the links and cards that I received (hope you don't mind, girls!)...
-World Vision (Girls and Women Education Fund): https://www.worldvision.org/worldvision/ecards.nsf/0/803FC5ECEAA6762D8825739000716332?Open&cmp=ILC-2004giftcateCard
-The Amazon Conservation Fund: http://www.e-cards.com/ (pickup code: ca9852-hm-lizkr1)
-The Heartbeat Centre for Community Development (South Africa) - (Thanks Mom!)

How wonderful! I also received thoughtful greetings from my mom, and other family and friends. Thank you!

Tobi got me an electronic picture frame, with photos of some of our most memorable adventures playing as a slideshow. Now I just have to add a few photos of some of our favourite people to that presentation... and it will be picture perfect.