Turning Over a New Leaf

Last week I turned 27! It still feels so surreal to me. After 25, I don't really feel like birthdays are such a big deal anymore. It doesn't matter to me somehow that the whole world doesn't even know I exist, so long as the ones I care about the most give me the attention I crave. This year is the first birthday I've gone through while working in an office. Having seen my friends' experiences—not going to lie—I'm kind of looking forward to it myself. At the same time, I'm not expecting much, believing myself to be quite unknown at the office. Lo and behold, my co-workers showed up for me. It was the sweetest birthday surprise/celebration I've ever had—in fact, the only one ever that hasn't been planned by Firu. I stayed up all night, baked 50 muffins and brought them to work, only to be surprised later on with cake and chicken wings—courtesy, mostly, of my beloved teammates and adorable interns. The best part was when I got thrown into the swimming pool we have out back. Needless to say, I felt absolutely loved and appreciated. So much for having low expectations, I guess.

Gifted shirt // Book of Deer skirt // thrifted loafers // Oh My Bows hair bow (closed) // photos by Sis

On the day itself I spent it in a pretty low-key fashion: hanging out with my siblings. We did the same thing on their birthdays, so it's only natural. My sister planned it out way in advance, asking to take me out for boba and a photo session. I'm sure there could be better birthday celebrations, but, for me, this is as good as it gets. My best friend Gina wished me a happy birthday three times and it was really special, since she usually doesn't remember the date. As far as presents go, I didn't really receive one, except for the one Firu gave me at the very last minute. He had to take me through a roller coaster of emotional wreck first beforehand, though. That guy will never live up to expectations—instead, he'd break them. Gosh, I love him so much! All in all, it was a very happy birthday for me, despite the fact that not much happened. Thank you to everyone who spared some time to send me birthday wishes and prayers. You are all such good people, I'm grateful to have you in my life.