I’ve been looking back through old photos lately, mainly because we are finally getting around to hanging pictures on our walls. You know how you see one semi-old picture and you get sucked in, and before you know it you’re staring at yourself three hair styles ago? That’s what happened.

I think part of the reason I couldn’t look away is because the mister and I have changed so much. And I don’t think I fully appreciated that until I was looking at the evidence of the difference. I turned 26 last December, and I’m no longer in my early twenties. I’m not sure it’s what I expected it would be. I think I had this perception that I would suddenly know Important Adult Things. Like how to fix the toilet that won’t stop running. Or what type of retirement fund I need and how much I should contribute. Or whether I should even bother trying to save for a house right now. Or if we’re ready to start a family. (Yikes.)

I may not be sure about those things, but while I was looking through pictures I realized that I have made some significant progress in the past several years.

Things I took away from my early 20s:

• Don’t fight your hair. Too heavy and long and wavy? Chop it! Let it be free! You look good.
• Don’t rely on ice cream and Oprah to make you feel better. The ice cream will make you fat and Oprah won’t be around forever.
• All that P.E. they made you do in school wasn’t just to make you feel bad about yourself and be smelly and sweaty in 6th period. Working out is actually an important part of adult life.  And if you’re not exercising with a bunch of other sweaty teenagers, you might actually enjoy it.
• It is possible to be with a man and have absolutely no doubt that he loves you more than the world. And he’s worth finding and keeping, no matter how unconventional the means.
• It’s not really marriage unless you can fart in front of each other.
• Don’t be so nervous about getting it right.  Do your best and forget the rest.
• Dance! You’ll love it.
• The bus isn’t all that scary.
• Routine is good. Set some rules for yourself.
• Don’t get in a rut. Try something new.
• Don’t be afraid to go to counseling. It doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It means you’re not going to settle for less than your potential. And it will be one of the best things you’ve ever done.
• You’re going to need more bookshelves.
• You have a lot more stuff at your parents’ house than you think.
• Try to learn to live simply, and don’t buy into the “more” culture. A strategic “less” is more relaxing.
• On the other hand, there are things you will eventually not be able to do without. Your own washer/dryer is one of them. And a deeper sink. And a private yard.
• There was a time when you thought, “This is the best I am ever going to look.” You’re incorrect. Never believe that. You’re worth feeling and looking fantastic every day.
• Love your friends and family deeply. Enjoy the role they have in your life, no matter how it has changed or will change over the years. They’re worth it.

Can’t wait to see what new things I’ll learn before I turn 30.

What things did you learn in your early 20s?