Oh the difference a year makes

October 7th was my birthday. We took a quick 1hr flight down to Wellington for a one night stay to catch an amazing show (World of Wearable Art). We rode their famous cable car up to beautiful panoramic views, and fit in some time at the Te Papa museum before heading back to Auckland.

This has been a weekend that I had no ability to envision a couple years ago. As a full time doctor working in the US, where allotted paid time off was disgustingly low compared to the amount of hours we work, This past year has afforded me more of an ability to take extended times off than ever before in my life. Aotearoa is so diverse and beautiful in a relatively short distance, that a new experience can be achieved by just a quick trip.

I have felt strange when thinking about this birthday. I will admit that I am not sure how it should feel to be 41. What I do know is that I am grateful to have been on this adventure and to watch my children and husband on this adventure over the past year as well. When I think of all of the new experiences, the lack of old bad experiences, the ability for us to explore our passions and to really breathe, it blows my mind. The year between my 40th and 41st birthday has been incredibly challenging and rewarding and has made me so excited and hopeful for the future