30 Things I Learned in my 20s

Today, I turn 30. It’s hard to believe that I’m entering another decade! A lot has happened – not all of which I expected nor in the order which I expected. I graduated from college, began my teaching career, earned my Masters, began a long-distance relationship, bought a house and got married.

I’ve learned a lot in my 20s so in honor of my birthday, I thought I would share 30 things I learned in my 20s. I have to thank Mandi at Life…Your Way for inspiring me with her 30 things list. Here’s my list of what I learned in this past decade.

1. Living on my own for five years was a wonderful experience.

2. I have a heart for family ministry.

3. Teaching piano lessons requires a lot of patience but is a great side job.

4. I’m glad I earned my Masters of Education. I’m glad I earned my Masters when I did.

5. Waiting to get married was hard at times, but my husband was worth every moment of the waiting.

6. Being patient is still hard.

7. Lutheran ministry requires more of me than I ever dreamed.

8. Writing a website is hard work but I love it!

9. The more I play the piano, the better I (slowly) get.

10. Directing musicals excites me.

11. I am an extrovert who still enjoys my alone time.

12. I don’t respond well to sarcasm.

13. Spontanity makes me nervous, but with time (and the patient prodding of a husband), it becomes easier to be spontaneous.

14. Finding a good deal makes me giddy.

15. Canning isn’t just something my grandmothers did. I can can, too! 🙂

16. You can learn a lot as the youngest teacher on staff.

17. College friendships last.

18. Reading is important to me and I will make time for it.

19. I will not apologize for reading lots of fiction, even as I discover how much I enjoy other genres. Fiction will always be my favorite.

20. I need a good night’s sleep to be at my best.

21. I am a perfectionist, but I have learned that perfectionism does have its time and place.

22. Written letters are a treasure that are meant to be savored.

23. Living without debt is worth every penny pinching sacrifice.

24. Traveling to and living in a different country will change your life-long perspective.

25. Owning a house is a lot of work.

26. I really like living in the country – Amish and all.

27. I am actually crafty.

28. Parents can actually be your parents and your friends at the same time.

29. Good hospitality makes anyone feel welcome.

30. Miles don’t have to separate a family.

Those are a few of the things I’ve learned. What have you learned in your 20s?