Last week I turned 31.
I only really started getting used to being 30 about a month ago, but somehow, 31 feels like no biggie. In fact, it’s the first birthday where I really feel like an adult who doesn’t need a big party or a bunch of presents or candles or streamers. (Totally needed that last year. Always judged my parents as a kid for not needing that.)
This year, we bought a new (to us) car (a planned purchase that needed to happen), and I happily announced that it would be the best birthday gift ever! I didn’t need anything else – I got everything I’d asked for in all the fun little features my new ride has to offer. I’m good.
I’d be lying if I said I didn’t notice a distinct look of relief on Ryan’s face. The man is busy. And with our anniversary, my birthday, mother’s day and everything else all crammed into one corner of the year, being super creative every two weeks is exhausting.
I turned 31 in my new family SUV, and y’all, that’s where 31 has me. I’m so grateful! I needed nothing more.
BUT, since Oliver and Hazel are spending the week in Michigan with Ryan’s parents (had I mentioned that? um, crazy times that they’re old enough to taking weeks away! Granddad + Groovy are awesome!), Ryan planned a happy, kid-free, surprise dinner party for a few of our closest friends to celebrate my birthday with us.
So exactly my speed. 100% my love language. Food + fun people I love = a perfect birthday!
I basically knew that it was happening, when it was happening, and who was coming, but the details of cooking, cleaning, planning, etc. were out of my hands. I went out for lunch and a little shopping with my Mom and sister after church on Sunday, and I came home to a spotless house, white linens on the table, and a giant plate of raw meat ready for the grill.
We feasted and chattered and told big stories that left us breathless with laughter.
By the end of the night we were stuffed with awesome food and satisfied by six straight hours of grinning ear to ear. 
I was completely satisfied with a low-key birthday, but this – this was so life-giving and fun!
Kinda makes me want 32 to come a bit quicker, just so we can do this evening all over again!
“If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.”
– J.R.R. Tolkien
“What I say is that, if a man really likes potatoes, he must be a pretty decent sort of fellow.”
– A.A. Milne
“Seize the moment. Remember all those women on the ‘Titanic’ who waved off the dessert cart.”
– Erma Bombeck
“The only time to eat diet food is while you’re waiting for the steak to cook.”
– Julia Child
Simply beautiful, Raechel!! The Mr. did well! And so did you in choosing him to know you so well and pull this off for you. Happiness!
Happy Birthday. Looks like a wonderful time with fantastic friends.
Happy birthday! And I love those quotes so much!
Super lovely! Such an encouragement.
I too am beginning to feel adulthood really settle in as I reach my mid-twenties. Although age is but a number, it can be intimidating. And yes, food makes it awesome.