This is 39ish Life: Christa

I used to wonder if I was a little out of place because my life didn’t fit the stereotypical persona. However, I don’t think I will ever fit in with a specific set of rules. I have always just been me, take it or leave it. I always knew that I would become successful but it had to be on my time, not society’s. I think everyone should work according to their needs and should figure out what they want out of life for themselves.

I am currently the stepmother to two amazing young adults of whom I am especially proud. My husband and I recently celebrated 13 years of marriage and just adopted a new doxie, Limoncello, to our family. She has been a blessing since losing my 16-year-old dachshund, Piper, last year. Piper was my mainstay through many of life’s challenges and losing her was one of the most difficult things I have endured. I realize many feel pets aren’t people, but in my case they are. My husband and I cannot have children together so fur-babies are our babies.

Today I am a counselor and I love my career. I work with young children and families. While my job is most often difficult, those brief moments of success in helping children and families overcome life’s challenges is the most rewarding experience. A professor in my master’s program once told me that counselors are “the wounded healers.” I believe that is true. However, I believe wounds heal and we can move on. I am such proof of that! I am so thankful for all of the experiences I have been afforded and I hope that those experiences in some way help others.

*Our little love, Limoncello

*School sidekick Andrew (couldn’t do what I do without him)

*Hubby Ryan and my stepbabies Hannah and Connor

*Stay tuned for more posts in this special blog series celebrating our many different views of 39ish Life.

Love more,

Dana