turning a year older.

I have much to be thankful for in the past year. I've managed to take some time off, recharge, earned myself another degree (almost there!), made new friends and took on a brand new life in another country. As my birthday was approaching, many asked how I was feeling about turning a year older. Some of my friends were devastated when they turned that so-called 'fearful' age and some embraced it. I believe I fall in the latter category. It's true that I'm now older and nobody likes growing older, but along with age comes many changes and good things that I failed to appreciate when I was younger.

And then there are some things that never change no matter how old you are. There's that bowl of mee sua that I get every year on my birthday cooked by Mom on most years, and by the Sister this year and the last. There are also the friends who have grown up with me that will always be there in time of need no matter how many miles separate us and would send me surprise balloons that make me feel special and loved.

The past year has been filled with ups and downs but a new year marks a new beginning. Having another candle on the birthday cake is just the beginning of a new chapter in life and guess what, I'm so damn looking forward to it!

Strawberry Watermelon Cake with Rose Cream from Black Star Pastry