When I turned 33, I called it my “Mrs. Pryor Year.” Melva Pryor was a favorite teacher of mine who taught me in elementary school. She was my teacher for third grade and that year she turned 33. I remember thinking that age seemed so old and from that point forward it became a milestone birthday in my mind.

Today, another amazing teacher turns 33. Although it has been nearly five years since Sidney last taught in a classroom, her teaching skills come in handy each day. I hope she puts them to use tonight as she instructs Sloan how to make all those candles fit on her birthday cake!

Happy Birthday, Sidney! Today she turns 33 (photo courtesy of Nicole Lynn Photos).

Okay, sorry, I always try to include a bad joke in these birthday blog posts. But before we focus on today’s special occasion and the 364 days that will follow, let’s look back at what was an extraordinary year of life for Sid: she organized two exceptional birthday parties (Bluey-themed and Taylor Swift-themed), presented at two weekend retreats, pulled off a surprise cross-country trip for the kids, earned a promotion, and received a prestigious award at work. And that just scratches the surface!

Yes, 32 was good.

As she begins her trip around the sun as a 33-year-old, I know it is going to be epic. The career achievements she attained this past year will bear beautiful fruit this year but you will have to stay tuned to learn the specifics. Sid’s devotion to Christ continues to inspire and she has set herself up for even greater ways to evangelize this year. Finally, she has shown zero signs of wanting to trade in her title as the best mom/wife so expect more unique birthday parties, special memories, and classroom project volunteering.

Happy birthday, Sid! I admire your fearlessness, love for others, and willingness to chart your own path. I love you and can’t wait for these next 52 weeks. Don’t Blink.