Another year older, another opportunity for new perspectives.

My actual birthday was much like any other day, with a dash of well wishes. I received warm greetings, had lunch with my sister and her family, and treated myself to a well-deserved day off.

Oh, and guess what?

It was also the release date for two books I had read in advance (It Should Have Been Us and Where We Fall). How incredible is that? Talk about feeling special! 

Now, here's a question: as you age, do you ever find your mind taking unexpected trips down memory lane, revisiting past birthdays? 

It happens to me, and let me tell you, it's quite the ride. 

It's a chance for reflection, a time to ponder what truly matters.

Here's my birthday speech 😅 about a few birthday realizations this year:

Celebration is a personal affair. 

What brings you happiness? 

If it's a wild party with 200 people, music blasting so loud you can barely hear yourself think, go ahead and boogie on. I've got no qualms about that. 

It's just not my cup of tea, not even when I was a teenager. I prefer the quiet and tranquil kind of celebration.

If my sister hadn't texted me, I would have happily stayed home, tidying up and losing myself in the pages of my books. 

Some might consider that pathetic or sad, but trust me, it would have brought me pure bliss. 

A whole day free from work and the outside world, just reading? It's heaven in my book.

And the joy of scrubbing away the grime and organizing my pantry and closet. 

It may sound strange, but it genuinely brings me peace. 

Picture a house so clean that you don't just see it. You can practically smell the freshness in the air. Just the thought brings me a serotonin boost.

And let me tell you, my love for romance novels knows no bounds. 

I can happily spend an entire day lost in their pages, my heart soaring with each turn. Simple pleasures, right?

Joy in simplicity.

As I grow older, simplicity becomes more appealing. 

The need to prove my happiness to the world diminishes. 

I no longer seek validation from those who don't know me - and even those who are supposed to give me one.

Knowing that I am loved by my Creator and cherished by the few people I hold dear truly matters.

And as long as our dogs think I'm amazing, I'm good.

I'd choose 10 genuine, caring individuals who support and love me over a thousand empty followers any day. 

It's about quality, not quantity.

Best gifts are free.

Material presents are lovely but don't hold a candle to the intangible treasures that fill my heart.

• I am truly blessed. Gratitude fills every corner of my being, reminding me of the abundance surrounding me. It's a gift in itself to recognize and appreciate the countless blessings in my life.
  
  
• My incredible husband, who loves me even when I'm not at my most lovable (bless his patient soul). Having someone who accepts and cherishes me for who I am is a gift.
  
  
• The handful of family members and friends. Their love and thoughtfulness brightened my day.
  
  
• Of course, my trusty books played a starring role in my birthday happiness. They whisked me away to far-off lands, introduced me to captivating characters, and filled my mind with wonder. They, indeed, are a source of endless entertainment and joy.

Last but certainly not least, I have you right here, dear blogging friends. Your presence, trust, and support mean the world to me. It's a gift I cherish and never take for granted. 

Thank you for being here and sharing this journey with me.

I can sincerely say that my birthday was a truly happy one. It may not have been filled with grand gestures or extravagant parties, but it was a day of genuine appreciation. 

And a break from adult responsibilities. Lol!

That, my friend, is pure happiness.

Thank you for being a part of it. 😘