I turned 36, three weeks ago. I generally try to avoid my birthday. It makes me feel bad when someone has to go out of their way for me. But, I have to admit, this birthday was awesome!

Thirty five was such a great age for me. I feel like I became more comfortable in my own skin. I learned to surround myself with positivity. In doing so, I feel more positive, myself.

I came out of my shell at thirty five. I hope thirty six has me growing a stronger one. I am far too sensitive. I need to work on that.

My mother baked me the yummiest cake I have ever had. And the week before my birthday, she sent me a package from Sephora with three boxes of my favorite facial wipes in it. I have been very gluttonous and have been using a whole wipe at night. It is awesome! She truly spoiled me. Thanks mom!

My husband’s gift to me was my huge Nordstrom Rack shopping trip. Thank you honey! He also made my day special by taking the day off to be with me. Fun! I wore my $15 Modcloth Stylish Surprise dress with a belt I got a couple of months ago on clearance from Anthropologie.

I was sick most of the day. So that was a bummer.

I spoke to my good friend Bridgette for an hour. She has been on vacation so much this summer. I have been missing her.

We ate at a local diner. I am a freak for tuna. I indulged in my favorite tuna melt. Yum!

My family (including my sweet mom again) gave me Anthropologie gift cards, which I quickly and gladly spent. Thank you family!

Some of my friends gave me money to go shopping at the Rose Bowl Flea Market (post to come about that trip). One of my friends made the money into a clothespin of origami dresses and hearts. Isn’t that fun? Thanks Holli! And they put it in this darling red tin. And one of my friends bought a cake and some yummy wine! Thanks Kerri! Some of them could not make it. Summer birthdays are hard. But, all of you girls are so wonderful. I know you were there in spirit. I am truly blessed to have such good friends.

Another great friend gave me the cutest green apron with a chevron pattern across it. I just used it last night, so it is in the wash. Pictures to come, while I am cooking. And a gift card for coffee, which I cannot wait to use with her. Thanks Kellie!

They took me out to dinner a few days after my birthday, at my favorite pizza place for wine and good conversation. Plus, yummy pizza! Thank you girls!

We later reconvened at my house for more wine and late night movie watching. We watched, “This is 40.” I did not like how it ended. I am a girl who needs a complete happy ending.

And it was not all about the presents. It was about the way everyone made me feel. Special.

Thank you!

I am very excited to see what 36 is going to bring. Thank you for the birthday wishes I received here. I appreciate them! I hope you all have wonderful birthdays in the coming year!

* The dress with the cute bear pattern is from Anthropologie. It is called Zola Shift.