A quarter of a century

Birthdays excite me. They remind me of new beginnings. 24 years have gone by and it’s another trip around the sun! 24 was a big year for me. It was my last year as a student, my last year at Long Beach, and it was perhaps the hardest year. Besides it being 2020 even before the pandemic happened, I had a bit of bad luck. However, I see my 24th year as transformative. It’s a big moment and shift in my life.

I also wanted to go see the sunset that day. Originally I wanted to see the sunrise but then realized that the sun rises over the mountains and not the ocean…yes I know. Kevin was nice enough to drive me wherever I wanted that day, so we headed to Manhattan Beach and some snacks and watched the sunset.

It was really special to me. For years I would drive to Palisades and Malibu by myself and watch the sunset. It was my mini sanctuary; I read, wrote, and drew. Sometimes I would simply listen to music. I received a call from my best friend, and it was the icing on the cake. Kevin is super special to me, so to have him with me and to have a romantic sunset was everything I needed.

The next thing I was excited about was my cake! I had a vision for a cake, and since I couldn’t have a small get together, I might as well enjoy a lovely cake for myself! I had seen Cynthia’s gorgeous desserts before, and I just HAD to have mine custom made. I sent over my inspiration, and I was not disappointed. 

I ordered a chocolate cake with vanilla buttercream. The frosting had dried flowers and edible lavender around the rim, and it was perfect! It was my dream fairy cake and suited me well. This was also special to me. As a Virgo, I like things a certain way, and this was entirely my style and exactly what I envisioned. 

I’m happy and excited to see what my 25th year has in store for me. Nothing but good vibes and happy blessings. Although the pandemic has put a pause and delayed certain aspects of my life, I’m healthy, alive, happy, and present. Happy Virgo Season!

With the pandemic going on, I’m not able to see many of my friends. It kind of makes me sad, but it reminds me of my birthdays when I was younger. Growing up, I never really had birthday parties with other kids, nor with friends. I was a summer baby, so I never really saw my friends during the summertime. Instead, I valued my experiences. My parents always took me to Disneyland, Knotts, or camping, which was really I needed. I was hesitant to go outside, but Kevin and I agreed that we should be okay as long as we are safe and complying with social distancing.

I decided to visit The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Garden. It was outside, and it’s a beautiful walk around the park. I chose to wear a very fancy dress, since it was my birthday, and it felt so good. I’ve always loved this style, so being able to tune into my fantasies on a special day was wonderful. I wore low heel shoes, although I would definitely recommend you bring comfier shoes! I also had a parasol to help keep cool.

There was one part that just reminded me of Pemberly, and it was gorgeous. Unfortunately, their art museum and many tea rooms were closed due to the pandemic. However, a lovely stroll through the gardens was pleasant. If you plan ahead, you can order a picnic basket from the cafe and eat in the gardens. We personally decided to go back home just to be safe.