Today is my birthday. And this one feels different.
Not because I’m turning a particularly exciting number (though let’s just say I’m getting better with age), but because this year marks a major transition for me both personally and professionally. Today I’m not just celebrating another trip around the sun—I’m reflecting on a life chapter that is slowly coming to a close and a brand new one that is just beginning.
And as much as I love cake, I’m realizing this birthday gift is less about frosting and more about freedom.
From Car Seats to College Towns: How Did We Get Here?
You know those moments where life feels like a time-lapse? That’s exactly how it feels watching my boys grow up. Weren’t they just 3 and 5, climbing into their car seats with fruit snacks in one hand and cars and their Thomas The Train trains in the other?
Now they’re 20 and 18. My oldest is already at Washington State University and my youngest? Well, he just graduated high school and will be joining his brother in Pullman in just over a month. Yes, BOTH of my boys will be Cougs—just like their mom. (Cue the Cougar Pride and maybe a few happy tears.)
I can’t lie—there’s something surreal about it. This season of motherhood, with all its chaos and carpooling and snack-packing, is winding down. And I’m officially stepping into my role as an empty nester.
The Transition We Don’t Talk About Enough
Let’s be honest: motherhood doesn’t come with an exit strategy. No one hands you a playbook for the moment your kids become adults and your daily life shifts from lunchboxes and laundry to FaceTime calls and college care packages.
This season is filled with so many mixed emotions. There’s pride. Gratitude. Nostalgia. Excitement. And yes, some grief too. Because even though you know this is exactly what you raised them to do, it doesn’t mean your heart doesn’t ache a little watching them drive away.
But what if we looked at this not as an ending, but as an opening?
Why This Birthday Feels Like a Rebirth
This isn’t just a birthday. It’s the beginning of my next chapter.
I’ve spent so many years pouring into my family and my businesses, and now, I get to pour into myself a little more. This is the season of rediscovery, of embracing change, and of figuring out what lights me up now that the carpool line is officially retired.
As I step into this new role as an empty nester, I’m also stepping more fully into my power as a businesswoman, a mentor, a coach, a creative, and a human being who finally has time to do the things that have been on the back burner.
I have big plans for the year ahead—professionally and personally. And I hope you’ll be along for the ride.
A Few Things I’ve Learned (And Want to Share With You)
You never "arrive" — and that's okay. Growth is a constant. Don’t expect to have it all figured out by 30, 40, or even 50. New dreams pop up at every age.
Letting go isn’t losing—it’s evolving. Watching your kids grow up and move out isn’t the end of your story. It’s just the start of a different one.
You can be wildly proud and a little heartbroken at the same time. That’s what growth feels like. It means you did something right.
It’s okay to be excited about your own life. Moms, I’m talking to you. You matter outside of your title as caregiver.
Celebrating YOU is never selfish. In fact, it teaches the people around you how to honor their own lives, too.
Looking Ahead: What’s Coming in This New Chapter
More time means more intention. Here are a few things I’m focusing on as I move forward:
Continuing to grow my business and support other wedding professionals
Embracing the beauty of having flexible weekends (what is THAT like?!)
Creating more content that educates, inspires, and uplifts
Leaning into personal wellness, new hobbies, and spontaneous travel
Spending quality time with my boys as they grow into the incredible men they’re becoming
And Now, Over to You
Whether you’re in a season of transition, dreaming of what’s next, or just here for the Cougar pride (Go Cougs forever!), I want you to know this: Change is not something to fear. It’s something to celebrate.
This birthday, I’m choosing joy, growth, gratitude, and gumption. I’m raising a glass to the wild, beautiful, unpredictable next chapter.
Thank you for being a part of this journey with me. Here’s to whatever comes next—and all the beauty it brings.
Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Tacoma Wedding Planner with over 19 years of experience. We create awe-inspiring experiences—Events filled with meaning and refined elegance. Behind the scenes, our experienced team collaborates on each stage of the process, executing your vision and a wedding, celebration, or corporate event that is unique to you.