My life in two eras: B.E. and A.E.

Dear Readers, Sports cars and strollers.

My "midlife" period happens to coincide with my entry into motherhood. Not only am I trying to figure out what I want to do when I grow up - write and be published? - but I'm also trying to understand who I am. It's no wonder I have had some introspective discussions over the past six months. Speaking of age and motherhood; according to the latest U.S. Census Bureau figures, the average age of women giving birth in the United States is 30, for the first time. Clearly, times are changing and there are many more like me who are starting this journey a bit later. Several socioeconomic reasons are linked to this delayed timeline, such as a lack of flexible and part-time career options, childcare, affordable housing and a greater focus on pursuing higher education and advanced degrees.

But I digress... When I look back on my life and make references to certain events, I joked to my husband, Nick, that the times will be referenced as B.E. (Before Evangeline) and A.E. (After Evangeline). You may have your own abbreviations. Being an older first-time mom, we did a lot of living before our little girl came around. To reflect on a few things from the past 18 years:

• Traveling domestically and abroad, which included some bucket list locales

• Taking long road trips with all-night drives

• Cruising to beautiful destinations

• Rescuing our beloved hound dogs and cats

• Buying our first house and making it a home

• Completing my Master of Arts degree

• Enjoying 15 years of a solid marriage

• Building wealth and making wise financial decisions (thanks to this and a little luck we are reaping the benefits of choice and flexibility right now)

• Advancing in our careers and receiving recognitions

We have a lot in the B.E. category. Now we get to experience the world through the eyes of a curious little girl. It's time to start building the memories of A.E. as mom and dad.