• AMAZON STOREFRONT
  • WALMART FAVS
  • FOOD
    • APPETIZERS
    • BREAD
    • BREAKFAST
    • DRINKS
    • SIDE DISHES
    • SNACKS
    • SWEETS
    • DINNER
  • DISCOUNT CODES
  • INFERTILITY SUPPORT
  • OUR INFERTILITY STORY
    • FROZEN EMBRYO TRANSFER (Current Cycle!!)
    • BEGINNING OF OUR INFERTILITY JOURNEY
    • 3RD ROUND OF IVF
    • THE IVF CYCLE THAT WORKED – WHAT WAS DIFFERENT
    • TWIN PREGNANCY
    • BIRTH STORY
  • SIGN UP FOR TEXTS
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube

A Slice of Style

  • About
  • Contact
  • Blog Posts
    • Fashion
    • Amazon
    • Walmart Favorites
    • Skincare
    • Home Decor
    • Family
    • To My Beautiful Child
    • Travel

30 Things I’ve Learned in 30 Years

Personal

17 Mar

Scary! I was on the “Panteras” dance team in high school ha ha!

Above are few pictures that take a trip down memory lane!

Welp, the day is almost here and my head is spinning. I’m turning 30 this Sunday, March 19th. How am I 30?! I can’t stop thinking about the fact that high school really doesn’t seem like it was was that long ago. And then I think about all that has happened since then, and it’s a lot. But still…do you remember when someone told you they were 30, and you thought that seemed so old? And you really didn’t think that you would ever get there. Now I’m here.

My mom told me that 40 wasn’t hard for her, it was 30 that really made her feel like she was an official adult. When you’re 30, you’re officially old too. I mean, I’m not saying I’m going to order a walker any time soon (maybe next year…), but it’s just a crazy thought!

One good thing about turning 30 is that you have some experience under your belt at this point, and you can use that experience to make your life better. You’ve made some mistakes, you’ve gone through really hard things, and hopefully you’ve taken those experiences and turned them into action on how to act better and be kinder.

30 things I’ve learned in 30 years!

  1. Everyone goes through hard challenges. Everyone. Don’t judge someone’s actions so quickly; they could be going through something that you know nothing about. We are all facing a difficult battle.
  2. I love being a mom more than I ever thought possible. I wasn’t the teenager that dreamed of being a mama. I was actually genuinely concerned that I would never really get that motherly instinct. When it was the right time, though, it came, and those babies bring more joy to my heart than I really even thought was possible.
  3. Running sucks. It’s hard on your joints. I didn’t like it in middle school when my lungs were about to burst in cross country, and I don’t like it now. I love working out, however, and I rarely feel better than I do after a good workout like lifting weights and the elliptical.
  4. Music makes life a lot better. Turn it on and turn it up, and sing and dance. Tyler and I did this before the babies came, and we still do it now.
  5. Marrying the right person is the most important decision of your life. My life is filled with joy and laughter every day because I married Tyler. He always sees the glass half full, and he always focuses on my good characteristics and ignores my fault. We all deserve someone like that.
  6. We are all just trying our best.
  7. It’s important to take care of yourself. I always make sure to do something for me each day so that I feel mentally and physically well to take care of others.
  8. People are more worried about how they are being perceived and how they look than they are about you. No one cares if your hair doesn’t look perfect, or you have 10 extra pounds that you need to lose. No one notices the things that you’re so worried about; they’re too busy focusing on themselves. This is a good thing. Relax!
  9. Don’t take life so seriously. We could be gone tomorrow. Laugh and love and appreciate everything you have, every single day.
  10. Worrying doesn’t help. It hurts. Breathe!
  11. Family is everything. Stay close to your family, and let them know how much you love them. Cultivate good relationships with them.
  12. Never suppress a generous thought. You can really light up other people’s days by acting kindly.
  13. Have FUN!! Have fun when you’re working, have fun when you’re cleaning…life is too short to not have some fun every day.
  14. Sometimes, things do taste better than being skinny feels. Eat the chocolate cake.
  15. Speaking of food, I told my mom when I was little that when I get her age, I will eat candy all day because I’ll be able to make my own decisions. That’s not true. Sorry, 8-year-old Jenica. You’re disappointed, aren’t you?
  16. Being outside is good for your soul. Sunshine on my face can make me feel new again.
  17. Don’t ever speak while you’re really, really angry. You’ll say things you don’t mean and have to clean up the mess afterward. If you hold your tongue, you’ll more often than not realize that what you’re mad about may still be frustrating, but you’ll be glad you didn’t just make things worse.
  18. Don’t compare yourself to others. You’ll never find happiness in doing this. Focus on your blessings and gifts.
  19. Always have something to look forward to, whether that be getting your nails done, going on a fun trip, or even just leaving the house and going to Target by yourself. It makes the hard moments much less difficult.
  20. Focus on your spouse’s needs more than you focus on your own. Take care of them, and if they do the same, you’ll always be taken care of and fee loved.
  21. Be anxiously engaged in a good cause. Look outside of yourself. When I do that, I find that my worries seem to dissipate.
  22. Popcorn is one of God’s greatest gifts to the world.
  23. Speaking of God, having a good relationship with Him will change your life. When I am praying and reading my scriptures regularly, I feel so much more calm and able to enjoy my life as well as handle the challenges that come my way with a better perspective.
  24. Going through hard things only makes you appreciate the good things that much more.
  25. I consider going through infertility one of my greatest gifts because it changed me to become a mother who truly values the gift that motherhood is. Each smile is that much sweeter, each laugh is that much more precious, each day that I spend with Harris and Goldie is a day that I treasure. I remind myself every single day that I was never guaranteed motherhood. This is something I wasn’t promised. This is a gift and a blessing. I let the small things go more easily and don’t get frustrated.
  26. Every person has a story that I can learn from. I really value those people who share theirs because it allows me to learn without having gone through specific challenges myself. It enables me to appreciate all that I have.
  27. Birthday weeks are the best. I think I would be a great Queen.
  28. Jumping out from behind somewhere and scaring people really is fun. Thanks for teaching me that one, Tyler.
  29. When you really get to know someone and learn about their experiences, you have a love for them. Your judgements are turned away and your heart is opened.
  30. Life is short. It truly, really is. I’m going to blink and I’ll be turning 60. Really, really live each day. Breathe in each moment. Don’t wish for days ahead or past. Today is the only day that I’ve been given and I’m going to LIVE.

Related Posts

  • Sole Society 30% off select styles

    Happy Monday! We are on our way home from California…

  • Piperlime extra 30% off sale!

    In case you hadn't heard the bad news, Piperlime is…

  • Favorite Casual Tees Under $30

    Hat | Tee | Jeans | Sandals | Sunglasses I'm…

18 Comments

Previous Post: « Wednesday Favorites: My Favorite Earrings
Next Post: A Beautiful Easter Table Setting »

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Kym Buckley says

    March 17, 2017 at 7:56 am

    Love this! I ran cross country in HS also and every day at practice it was always a shock that we had to run haha 😉 Now I also prefer elliptical or nice long power walks with incline!

    Reply
    • Jenica Parcell says

      March 19, 2017 at 3:56 pm

      That’s my girl! ha ha couldn’t agree more. Have a good day!

      Reply
  2. Shelly Cunningham says

    March 17, 2017 at 10:44 am

    This was wonderful to read.
    I want to thank you so much for sharing your parenting journey with all of us. You remind me to enjoy this time in the trenches and be grateful for the four little people my husband and I created. (We have twins, too! 8 year old boys, our first babies!)
    I love reading your take on twins, and seeing your “Day in the Life” because it takes me back to when Logan & Jack were babies. It goes so fast!
    Thanks for being so sunny and such an amazing example of God’s love!

    Reply
    • Jenica Parcell says

      March 19, 2017 at 3:57 pm

      Shelly,

      Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful comment; it means so much to me!! It does go by way too fast.

      You are so kind. Thank YOU for being so sunny!

      Reply
  3. Laura says

    March 17, 2017 at 12:06 pm

    I LOVE this post! You are so inspiring and so positive! You radiate kindness and sincerity. Once of the few bloggers out there who seriously is so genuine and real in each and every post! You have such a positive outlook on life and those babies of yours are so lucky to call you mama! 🙂 xo

    Reply
    • Jenica Parcell says

      March 19, 2017 at 3:58 pm

      Laura- your sweet comment made my day!! Thank you SO much!! xoxo

      Reply
  4. Raquel says

    March 17, 2017 at 2:38 pm

    You have a great outlook and are so positive! Thanks for your great example.

    Reply
    • Jenica Parcell says

      March 19, 2017 at 3:54 pm

      Thank you so much!! xo

      Reply
  5. Rachael says

    March 17, 2017 at 10:36 pm

    I loved this! Happy birthday ? Thank you for sharing

    Reply
    • Jenica Parcell says

      March 19, 2017 at 3:54 pm

      Thank you so much!!

      Reply
  6. Rylie Talbot says

    March 19, 2017 at 4:33 pm

    You are so darling! Thank you for being such a great example- always so positive and uplifting! Happy Birthday!!

    Reply
    • Jenica Parcell says

      March 21, 2017 at 11:19 am

      Thank you so much for your kind comment! I really appreciate that, Rylie. Have a wonderful day!

      Reply
  7. Emily says

    March 19, 2017 at 4:54 pm

    Happy birthday! I’ve been a follower for a little while now as my husband and I journey through infertility. (We’ve just finished out third cycle and are praying for a positive pregnancy test in about a week!) I love your positivity- especially numbers 5 & 12! Thanks for sharing 🙂 Emily

    Reply
    • Jenica Parcell says

      March 21, 2017 at 11:18 am

      Emily – thank you so much! I’ll be thinking of you and praying for you. Stay strong, mama!

      Reply
  8. Emily Shonk says

    March 20, 2017 at 7:29 am

    Happy Birthday – thanks for sharing!!

    Reply
    • Jenica Parcell says

      March 21, 2017 at 11:17 am

      Thank you so much!

      Reply
  9. Maggie says

    March 20, 2017 at 5:40 pm

    Happy Birhday Jenica!!???? I love your log and positive outlook! Your babies are so precious and I really enjoy watching them grow up. I’m a mom of 13-year-old triplets and it went by so fast. Enjoy every moment! ?

    Reply
    • Jenica Parcell says

      March 21, 2017 at 11:17 am

      Thank you so much, Maggie! I’m going to hold on tight and try not to blink because it does go by so fast!! You’re an amazing. Triplets!! Wow! Thank you 🙂

      Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Primary Sidebar

Let’s Connect

  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • YouTube

MEET JENICA

 

My name is Jenica and I'm so glad that you're here! I started this blog in 2014 to share the best deals on the nicest things because I believe we all deserve to live the best life on less. Read more...

Search

A Slice of Style Newsletter

get latest updates, new releases, & exclusive tips and deals straight to your inbox!

Latest Favs

Latest Videos

Shop My Instagram Pictures!

  • About
  • Infertility & Pregnancy
  • Motherhood
  • Recipes
  • Privacy Policy

jenicaparcell

✨ Coach for women w/ infertility + @fearless.infertility podcast host
✨ affordable fashion
✨ mom to IVF twins + baby boy
✨ [email protected]

Jenica Parcell | Infertility Support | Affordable Fashion
#ad You think you’re getting a good night’s sl #ad You think you’re getting a good night’s sleep, but you continue to wake up feeling unrested and aren’t sure why.

Your spouse notices you are snoring and they can’t get their own good night’s sleep by sleeping in the same room.

Neither option is any fun for anyone involved!

Snoring can be a symptom. Sleep apnea is where your throat closes off while you are sleeping, which does not allow for proper oxygen flow to your brain, thus leaving you tired the next day….and leaving your spouse sleepless as well.

And we all know that a CPAP machine is not the most user-friendly experience out there…

Enter @Soundsleepmedical. They have created an appliance that gives you sound sleep. The device holds your jaw slightly forward when you sleep so your airway is not blocked at all, and you wake up feeling refreshed and your spouse can sleep back in the same room as you.

Quality of life and a happy spouse is a win-win.

Be sure to use the link in my bio to schedule your free sleep screening. You can use code JENICA to receive a free sleep screening, which includes an in-office consultation and at-home sleep test, along with $50 off your oral appliance.

Sweet dreams my friends.
I cannot BELIEVE it was only a short year ago that I cannot BELIEVE it was only a short year ago that I was deciding if I could handle doing another frozen embryo transfer…and now LOOK at him 🥹 It was one of the hardest years of my entire life. Going through things I don’t wish on anyone. But look at us now 😭 And looking internally…the things I’ve learned.

Tell me about something a year ago for you that you didn’t know you’d get through and can’t believe you are where you’re at 🤍👇🏻 #infertilityjourney #ivfsuccess #frozenembryotransfer
This is it. Not just in motherhood, although moth This is it.

Not just in motherhood, although motherhood really amplifies it, but in life.

It’s the fast days that are loud and sunny.

It’s the slow days that are quiet and snowy.

The mismatched pajamas and the dressed to the nines.

It’s the mess.

It’s the organization and order.

It’s the to-do list that gets crossed off and the to-do list that doesn’t.

It’s in the allowing of both.

It’s in perhaps preferring one over the other, but not judging either.

It’s in the wisdom that both will pass and each have lessons to teach.

Neither is wrong.

Both are allowed.

This is it.

#infertilityjourney #ivfsupport #infertilitysupport #infertilitycommunity
It might feel impossible in the middle of it and y It might feel impossible in the middle of it and you might question everything.

“I have no idea what the future will bring.”

“Will everything I’m putting myself through be worth it?”

“What am I doing?”

“Am I making the right choice?”

But your moments will come. Trust that and let it bring you peace.

The alternative is feeling anxious, which is also completely acceptable and normal, but remember that you also have the option of trusting and feeling peace, too. There is room for both.

You’re not alone in this 🤍

#infertility #ivfjourney #infertilityjourney #infertilitysupport #infertilitycoach #infertilitycommunity
It was a year ago that I decided to jump into the It was a year ago that I decided to jump into the deep, black ocean of IVF again. I knew what I was doing this time and I was filled with fear because…I knew.

When I found out I was pregnant, the fear was my secret. Only a close few knew.

And this space was filled with tears, uncertainty…soul reaching prayers.

Sleepless nights, gut wrenching heartache.

Secrets that I hold close to my heart.

And then he came.

And the healing began.

And the mama, this mama, knew she did it.

That black ocean had swallowed her whole and she’d do it again for the light that is him.

Once she swam to the surface, and jaggedly gasped in the fresh air and felt the sunshine on her face, she knew she would do it all over again.

For this sacred chaos.

Tonight as I was moving the bassinet out of my room, I stopped. The room will soon be cleared. The shelves emptied and the order restored. And I can’t believe that the ocean was conquered. The chaos was where I found the strength and the beauty.

The sacred, precious chaos.

#infertility #infertilityawareness #ivfjourney #ivfpregnancy #ttccommunity #ttcjourney #ttcsisters #ttctribe
FEEL BETTER and get healthy this year starting tod FEEL BETTER and get healthy this year starting today in the 7-week LEAN program with daily accountability and the “why” behind the actions you’re taking for LIFETIME health and wellness (not just a quick fix that will leave you frustrated, confused and looping again and again).

This is NOT the all or nothing strategy that you’re used to.

Yes, you can eat the things you love still!

No, you won’t feel guilty.

Sign up today for the Jan. 16th start date and use code JENICA (any time) for $10 off! Amanda will put us in a group together so we can check in every day.

I’m excited for you to experience this! LEAN program link in my bio. #healthandfitness #weightlosshelp #wellnesscoach
I know you’re independent, I know you’re capab I know you’re independent, I know you’re capable, I know you can conquer anything…BUT you were never meant to do all of this alone. 🤍

Allow yourself to be supported.

Are you denying help anywhere? Are you not asking for support where you could?

Is this hard for you? Is this easy for you? Tell me below! 🤍 #fearlessinfertilityschool #infertilitysupport
It’s a big deal. You’re a big deal! Just sayin It’s a big deal. You’re a big deal! Just sayin’ 👊🏼💪🏼👏🏻 #slowclap #yourenotalone #infertilitysupport
Load More... Follow on Instagram

Copyright © 2023 · Refined theme by Restored 316

We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website.

You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings.

A Slice of Style
Powered by  GDPR Cookie Compliance
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookies

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.