on birthdays
I recently celebrated my 29th birthday. If you know me even a little, you know how much I love birthdays, including my own. I grew up in a home where we celebrate everything! Birthdays, anniversaries, new clients, report card day - you get the picture. But birthdays are big. There is always a big lead up and the day never disappoints. There's presents, cake, cards, trips, memorable family moments and of course, incredible food. We often go out, but equally amazing is a feast mama prepares. Whether it is a big party or a small gathering, it's always such an exciting time.
It’s funny how milestones work. To some people, it’s just another day, and quite frankly it is. The way I figure, is why not celebrate, otherwise what’s the point of life! However, as exciting as the celebrations can be, my birthday has always been a forced, albeit welcomed, time of reflection. I tend to take the few days leading up to my birthday to reflect on the year before, and the one coming up. I err on the side of extroverted (I am a Leo after all), but I find myself retreating and taking a moment during this time.
This year was no different. As I approach 30 (also just a number), I find myself appreciating myself more than I have to date. I took the time to acknowledge my achievements, identify areas for improvement and set a few tangible goals for the next year. This past year was one for the books. I got married, we bought our first home, I received a promotion, made new friends (so hard as an adult, amirite?), and finally found myself feeling settled in Toronto, which we have only been in for two years. It can be easy to get caught up in the stresses of the day to day (read: all too easy for me), or the anxieties that present themselves for many of us, but this time allows me to reflect on my life and how grateful I am. Although it's a practice that I should employ more often, it's these milestones in life that provide space for this reflection.
My 20s have been full. Full of adventure, insecurity, excitement, disappointment, doubt, laughter, loss, heartbreak and love (and of course SO much good food). I have learnt so much about myself and life these past nine years, and I am excited to end this decade with a bang! I feel charged and focused. For me, my goals are around my health (both physical and financial), which I hope to expand on during future conversations with you.
I was fortunate enough to have many celebrations around my birthday with friends and family this year, including a trip to Vancouver with Doug. Keep an eye out for a city guide that I will be putting together for the city, with a little help from a friend.
I’m curious, how do you celebrate? What are some traditions you have around birthdays if any? Do you have certain food traditions around your birthday? Tell me!!
scenes from my celebrations
Starting from top left
my big little brother and I
i reflect best with a glass of Macallan
aperitivo at Savio Volpe, Vancouver
smokey skies at Persephone’s, Gibsons
Doug and I, lol
candles at La Palma, Toronto
more drinks, Savio Volpe, Vancouver
mortadella was one of my summer obsessions, La Palma does it right
in 24 years of friendship, this is likely one of three good photos of Caitlin and I
charles being cute, as per usual
these cuties are the best parents anyone could ask for, really
my new favourite toronto spot, this market fish curry is unreal
