I'm turning 42 this weekend. How this age snuck up on me is a mystery. To reassure myself that I got wiser at the same time I got stouter, here are some things I learned this year:

• I may have laugh lines, but at least I did some laughing.
• Therapy can be a helpful tool.
• Drinking with friends can also be a helpful tool.
• I don’t need no stinkin’ man.
• Don’t need one, but would still like to meet one. Oh, and I’d like him to worship me.
• There are numerous ways to fall down and skin your knees.
• Teenagers are part alien.
• Never dye your hair a color to please a man. Please yourself.
• It is possible to start a year crying and end it stronger than ever.
• I like to write. A lot.
• You can live without much money.
• You can’t live without good friends.
• I have potential as a chef.
• I do not have potential as a housekeeper. Love me, love my mess.
• First dates are exhausting.
• I love my dogs more than is rational.
• Angels exist. Know them when you see them.
• Best advice I’ve received this year: “The first time someone shows you who they are, believe them.”
• Worst advice I’ve received this year: “Sign your daughter up for driver’s ed.”

Leah Rex has worked in some aspect of the book business for more than half her life. When given the choice between food or books, she will always choose books.