Two weeks ago, I turned 36. How great is that? I am thrilled and grateful to have lived 36 years on this planet, among so many amazing friends, wonderful family and now my two astounding children.

I am such a lucky person, and I am overjoyed for every day that I am here, every new gray hair, all the scars I have collected, and for each year that I add to my total.

I know that a lot of people do, but I don’t fear getting older, although I have sometimes regretted time — years sometimes — that I feel that I’ve wasted (even though, in my most zen moments, I recognize that those years must have also served a purpose in my life).

This year, I don’t feel like I’ve wasted a moment. I’ve done so much and experienced so many things. The moments that I’ve spent doing nothing were rest and recuperation, not apathy or laziness. So, I have no regret and I welcome turning the calendar to the next page.

It feels great to be 36, and I am so excited to continue my grand adventure.