And then time keeps moving forward.

I ran into some old friends earlier over the weekend, while out celebrating my mother's birthday after mass at the National Shrine. 

It has been a few years since I have hung out with them regularly, but it was so easy to hug them and congratulate them both as they are expecting their first child soon.  The father-to-be was beaming, the mother-to-be was glowing, and my heart was smiling incessantly for the both of them.  We all marveled at how quickly time has flown by, and I remarked that in the few years since we last saw each other, these two have bought a house, gotten married, and gotten pregnant, while I have had three different addresses in the past year alone, and still no ring on that special finger yet. 

I didn't mean to come across as being a downer, or make it sound like a race -- and I sure as hell hope that they didn't think I was envious of them! -- but I am afraid it might have come across that way. 

But our conversation led me to realize that I really am genuinely happy where I am right now in my life.  I love walking to work every morning, I am proud to be part of an extremely creative and innovative company, I enjoy my studies tremendously, and I don't even know where to start in regards to my amazing family, friends, and Manfriend.  In between, I have had unique opportunities to give back to the community, starting with teaching a law class this Thursday (at my old highschool, no less!) and speaking on behalf of the breast cancer clinic I advocate for this Saturday at a school event.  Next month, I'll be one of 36 "personal shoppers" who will be helping underprivileged highschool girls pick out their perfect prom dress and accessories at my work.

My conversation with my old friends also made me realize that, despite my fears of not becoming a good wife or a good mother or even a good leader, I really do want all of these things, one day.  And I have faith that, in due time, with the hard work I put in now, I'll be ready for that "one day" when it arrives!