Reflecting on the 20th anniversary of my business, SoCozy, has given me a chance to think about all the lessons I’ve learned along the way—some big, some small, and some about my relationship with tuna fish.

20 Things I’ve Learned in 20 Years (in no particular order)

1. When I eat chicken fingers and fries off my kids’ plate, the calories still count.

2. Wear suntan lotion and reapply often. (You hear that, 26-year-old me?)

3. It’s not worth trying to “duck” someone. If you see them, they see you. (Thanks for this one, Mom.)

4. I say and do things as a mom that I never expected, like, “I don’t care what all your friends are doing!”

5. Proper footwear is the key to a happy life. Rainboots and snowboots, I apologize for resisting you for so long.

6. Even “honest” people may steal if given the opportunity.

7. I trust my gut. It’s nearly always right.

8. Nothing is more important than health.

9. I never really know if a doctor is good until I have a health issue.

10. I can’t look good if I don’t feel good. I think some people can, but I’m not one of them.

11. I really appreciate my husband. He’s not perfect, but he’s the best.

12. Careful what gets said in front of the kids.

13. Flossing is really important. Actually, good teeth are really important.

14. It feels good to throw things away. So good.

15. I love traveling more than just about anything.

16. Call me a third grader, but pizza and French fries are my favorite foods. No apologies.

17. I can’t live without running. Everything about it is an analogy for life: the struggle, the high, the challenge.

18. I can do anything I put my mind to. (Another one to thank Mom for.)

19. I get excited about everything I have yet to learn. Can’t wait.

20. I will never acquire a taste for tuna fish. Blecht.

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