My first milestone birthday was 13. I'd truly be a teen then. For my birthday, I got a facial and a makeup lesson. My mom had a rule, I couldn't wear makeup until I'd been shown how to wear it properly. I'm not sure how many years I continued to make myself up every morning, might not have even lasted 1, but I learned that less is more and I didn't look like a whore when I wore it.
And then there was my sweet 16. I had friends over and watched movies IIRC.
Next came 19, when I could legally drink. My mom, 2 aunties and my friend Melissa, who had turned 19 in August, took me to a bar when midnight rolled over so they could buy me my first legal drink. The teacher from my former high school that I had a huge crush on was playing there with his band. They played happy birthday and Michelle by the Beatles. I had a rye and ginger I think (cc dry for my kiwi readers).
When I turned 20, I broke up with my negligent not-really-boyfriend and had the best birthday with by BFF Anthony who invited another university friend Dan out to join us for drinks. We went to the Jolly Friar where a group of old high school mates, including my ex-bf (but still friend), turned up. The evening ended with shots and cake at Casey's on Great Northern Road. Was my favourite birthday so far (and was half a life time ago).
After that, I met a guy, who soon became my husband. We spent 17 years together in total, and none of the birthdays really stand out. As you can guess, that ended in separation (shortly after anniversary 15).
The first birthday post separation - this was an interesting one. My social circle was really small. That birthday, I treated myself to a movie and dinner consisting of popcorn. Went to see 500 days of Summer which I hadn't really researched in advance and thought was a light RomCom. Turned out it wasn't, but I still enjoyed it, while wondering if it would be the first of many lonely birthday parties.
The second one was better. I had friends of the single and married and loved up varieties. I had recently come home from my sister's wedding and gathered some friends to celebrate another year passing and the beginning of my final 30-something year.
Now I'm sitting here on the sofa curled up with the worlds best dog on my birthday eve. I've been reflecting on my existence the last few days and have to admit that I'm actually quite happy with the life that I have. I have some amazing friends and family, I live in an awesome city, and I make money doing something that really interests me. My life may not be perfect, but it is perfect for me.
And so, as my 40th birthday approaches, I just want to say thank you to those who have become such integral parts of my life. I love you and I feel blessed. xx
