In My Birthday Era
My birthday was actually over a week ago, but we're still gonna talk about it!
In the words of Barbie, “It’s My Birthday”
*If you don’t get this reference, look it up. It’s stupid but it’s hilarious.*
Okay, okay okay, elephant in the subtitle: it is not my birthday, but let’s pretend like it is.
Birthdays in your 20s are so weird.
23 feels so in between. I’m not old, I’m not fresh in my twenties anymore, and I still feel like I have no idea what I’m doing. But I’m better at not knowing what I’m doing? Anywho, I’m just incredibly thankful to have lived another year. And I’m thankful for what 23 has looked like so far!
To start off, I spent the morning of my birthday traveling to my hometown from Houston (hey Aunt Denese!). While I’m not a big Starbucks kinda gal, I did take advantage of the “free birthday drink” you get.
The baristas were so kind, and honestly made my morning! The drink itself was okay at best, but it’s the thought that counts right?
I then pit-stopped at Bucee’s (like any Texan lol) and got a Hippo Breakfast Taco. My standards for breakfast tacos are incredibly high, but this one hits the spot almost every time.
I also went to the beach because I had no afternoon plans and free will.
For dinner, Brett and I got bougie seafood. My dad and I especially love a good hole-in-the-wall, but we kept it classy (it’s my birthday!).
I also now have a newfound love for salty dogs and fish, who’d a thought!? Not this guy.
One of the best parts? NOT BEING SUNG TO. No birthday humiliation this year!
Overall, my birthday this past year was one of my favorites: very stress-free and no expectations. I guess since 23 isn’t as big of a “milestone” birthday compared to others, it felt just like a fun day versus aging into a new year (if that makes sense).
“Birth-week” highlights!
pre-bday picnic
I love picnics, and I love my friends. Besides the weather being excruciatingly HOT, this was such a fun day!
baseball!!
It’s unexpected but I. LOVE. BASEBALL.
Probably the only sport I really get the hype for, especially sitting in the stands! Our local team always has Dippin’ Dots: a true American delicacy for America’s national sport.
Side note: when I was twelve, I asked for a case of liquid nitrogen for my birthday to make homemade Dippin' Dots…that did not happen.
the “family is coming over” weekend meal
When there’s a birthday or just want a reason to get together, the go-to meal is
Kibbeh
Syrian Salad
Another Lebanese side (we went for Syrian-style green beans and rice)
the works (baba ghanoush, hummus, veg, olives, bread, THAT IS IT)
Plus dessert (this time around crackle cookies and ice cream, very Siti-core)
In closing: 23 is looking pretty good. Here’s hoping and praying it is!
With Love,
Cara