On the eve of my 33rd birthday, I look back and reflect on the 365 days before me with gratitude:

• Received a promotion at work
• Moved to a new ‘hood with a new friend
• Traveled to 4 countries and went on 6 other vacations
• Had the honor of serving as the maid of honor in my cousin’s wedding
• Attended two yoga retreats
• Made new friendships and strengthened old ones
• Wrote a multitude of articles for new publications
• Deepened my yoga practice and started my meditation practice
• Volunteered countless hours to organizations to which I’m connected

When I turned 31, I cried and cried about my birthday. I felt like I hadn’t accomplished anything because I couldn’t hold a relationship, let alone get married and have babies. I was – and have been for many years – consumed with having a family as my purpose in life. On past birthdays I’ve wished for love, a husband, marriage, a family, but this year I wish for continued happiness.

This year, I look back and think about so much more. Do I want a family? You better believe it! But I’m proud and happy about the fact that I am so so so so much more than that. My identity isn’t defined by my singlehood. I am a yogi, a writer, a volunteer extraordinaire, a Girl Scout, a friend, a sister, a cousin, a daughter, an auntie, a traveler, a person who’s comfortable in her own skin.

So, here, on the eve of my 33rd birthday, I won’t mourn anything. I’ll celebrate all of the greatness! Thank you to everyone who’s contributed – even in some small way – to the fantastic past 365. And if I didn’t see you while I was 32, let’s grab a glass of wine sometime.