Today's my birthday and it is a milestone! The Advoc8te turns forty! I know hitting the big 4-0 can be challenging (aka terrifying) for a lot of women but I am actually really excited about it. I think because I powered through a lot in my thirties and had so many amazing experiences and opportunities that I can only be excited about this next chapter in my life. 

I like to think that in my twenties I was just learning what I could do, in my thirties I discovered what I had to do and now in my forties I am looking forward to more of what I want to do! I think something can be said for time bringing wisdom and life experiences giving you a much more optimistic view of the world. From a professional standpoint I don't think I could ask for better. I moved to Ward 8 at 30, started a blog and a business at 31 and spent the next 9 years creating and working on some amazing projects that I like to think had a positive impact on this community I love. That said, it did come with a lot of sacrifice. My little brother went from not being so "little" and is now a senior in college. I missed a lot of quality time with my family and I totally dropped out on my pre-Ward 8 friends. I was not a very good friend to the people who were in my life prior to the 20032. That probably makes me saddest of all when I really think about it. And from a romantic standpoint -- forget about it! If you think dating is hard try to imagine it what it's like after someone Googles you! Lol. I actually had one potential suitor to tell me he doesn't date bloggers because they are too public! Then there is the challenge of trying to determine which guy loves Nikki or The Advoc8te. I have to admit, I haven't always been able to figure that out in time and that really sucks but all in all I've met some amazing people and learned a lot. It's hard to feel sorry for myself when I have so much to be thankful for. 

So as I sit at my desk, hitting these familiar keys for what will be my 7,617th blog post I look to the future with optimism and more than a bit of curiosity. If my next decade is anything like my last it's going to be one hell of a ride! 

Thank you all for joining me on this journey and being my inspiration every day. 

XOXO

The Advoc8te AKA Nikki P.

P.S. In other GREAT news Anacostia won the 2016 Curbed Cup challenge! That makes Anacostia the only two time winner! We brought home the virtual trophy in 2012 and 2016! That's an amazing birthday gift!