I’m usually a big birthday person – not that the celebration has to be elaborate, but I like it to be recognized. I tend to extend the celebrations… birthday weekend, birthday week, and birthday month are all things that I’ve said!

Obviously, this year’s celebrations are looking a little bit different than previous years, but I’m really feeling okay it about it. I think the pandemic has really taught me to be grateful for the small things in a way that I wasn’t before. So instead of a trip to DC like I did for my 30th, or like a rooftop celebration with friends like I did last year, this year’s was much more low-key but no less enjoyable. This year, I had a front porch visit with friends that I haven’t seen in months, I had some of my favorite Milk Bar Pie, I relaxed outside, and I spent time with family.

Do I hope that by next year’s birthday, I can celebrate with friends and family somewhere that isn’t my house? Yes, definitely! But I’m still so grateful for the people in my life who have gone out of their way to celebrate this year. It’s felt so nice to have something happy to look forward to and focus on, and it’s really brightened my days.