"Estas Son Las Mañanitas..."

TADA- Today's my birthday! I'm 33! YAY!!

Usually I don't make a big deal about my birthday, but something about 2008 makes me want to. I even let the girls in my office know it was my birthday- and y'all know I STAY hatin on the office birthday wishes (they just feel so FAKE!).

Anyways, I was thinking, 33 is kinda old; I don't subscribe to this "30 is the new 20" mentality, because if 30 was the new 20, then my back wouldn't need BenGay nor would I have to squint at the page when editing an article.

But supposedly, with old age comes wisdom. *snicker* So here are a few things I've learned in my 33 years on this here earth that I'd like to share with you:

>Sisters...


...are a thing of beauty and a source of strength. They are your solace, a shoulder to lean on, a loving ear, a helpful hand. Sisters are a forever friend.

>A messy house...



...is not the end of the world. It's only a problem if it bothers you. If you're okay stepping over that pile of papers then by all means, keep stepping over it!

>It's just hair...



...and it will always grow back...



...so try not to cry when Tyra and Company are offering you a free makeover on America's Next Top Model.

>Acid washed denim...



...was NEVER a good look. And if someone attempts to bring it back, knock them the hell out.

>A good marriage...



...is a real possibility. It's rare, takes a lot of work, love and understanding, but is so very worth it in the end. Your kids will thank you for it.

>Little girls...



...need their daddies. Anyone who tells you different is a stone-cold liar. If you're a father to a little girl, oh my god- I can't stress this enough- treat her like a princess! She needs it. Trust me.

>Motherhood...



...does have its rewards. It's hard and I hate it 99% of the time, but that one percent is enough to make me want to be a better person. Just for them.

>Naked babies...



...are happy babies. Don't force them into anything- not even a diaper- when they're at home. That should be their safe-haven, where they can be free; just watch how the creativity just oozes from them when they don't have a bunch of restrictions!

>Birthday parties...



...are important. Especially when you're a kid. Balloons, cake, games, prizes, music, laughter- all of that makes a difference in a kid's life. Whether they have one guest or twenty, do not deprive a child of a birthday party.

>Pregnant...



...does not equal fat. Ladies, I know it's hard because we want to look good, and in this society looking good means being skinny, but if you're with child, shiiit! That's a free pass to let all those hang-ups go and just let your body be.

>Good friends...



...are so hard to come by. Cherish the ones you have...



...let them know they are important to you...



...and that without them you really are just not as happy.

>A Montauk sunset...



...can make all the difference between a really shitty day where you are two seconds from jumping in front of the F-Train, and total peace with the world around you.

*smooches...honored to be alive another year, and to share my life with all of you*
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...and now that I've gotten all the mushy stuff out of the way... LET'S GET FUCKED UP!!!

On another note: thank you for all your cyber-well-wishes; my friend is going to be just fine. More than fine, actually, and it's the best birthday present a girl could ask for!