Celebrating A Quarter Of A Hundred Plus One

Growing up in a very conservative home, my mom had very strict rules when it comes to school, hanging out with friends and such. Some of the rules were - I was not allowed to go home past 5PM on a weekday (my dismissal was 4PM), I cannot go to the movies with my friends,  and so on ~ but did you know which rule I hated the most? I was never, under any circumstances allowed to sleepover  at any of my friends' homes.

I have always envied other kids when they'd show me developed photos from their pajama parties ala-Sleepover Club, I'd be out of place whenever they'd discuss what went down during that weekend or I'd be sad because I was not able to watch the movie they saw together that weekend. 

So I promised myself that when I grow older, I'd throw myself my own Pajama Party with my closest friends. At 26, I did just that! 

I told my friends that I was having a sh*tty week before my birthday for reasons I cannot even explain but despite that,  Bon and my friends made sure that I'd have the best time. I cannot express how blessed I am that despite feeling a bit overwhelmed because of adding another number to my age, I have this great support system who will always be cheering me on. 

Feeling like a kid with no responsibilities the whole day was maybe the best part (aside from our very extra sleepwear for the 'gram). We ate so much that after sometime, I felt like food was going to come out of my mouth like a soft served ice cream - except its everything I ate that night. Yuck, Blanche!

One of my closest friends Patty told us that the first thing she said when she arrived after a long day from work was "AHHHH MY PEOPLE!" and that's when she felt most at home.

I actually felt that too. It is refreshing to be around people who make you feel like you can just be yourself without having to always put your best foot forward and yet they'll still accept and love you unconditionally.

Aside from having the best friends and family, I am grateful that at 26 - I'm with Bon. Bon has been nothing but wonderful to me for the past three years. He has always made sure that I have all the support that I need whenever things get tough. It might not look like it but Bon has been my rock in the most trying times especially when I can't even understand myself. Along with so many other things, I know that I am more than blessed to have him in my life.

Year 2000 at 18 years old:

"When I reach 26, I'd probably be engaged to be married to the love of my life. I'd like to think that I'd be working in the fashion world or probably an art director of a popular magazine. I'd have my own house and do whatever I want."

Year 2019 at 26 years old:

"I am now 26 and I am still nowhere near my goals. How I wish I had everything figured out by now, but who was I kidding then? I went through a lot these past few years but I wouldn't change any of it. I believe that I had to go through all of those things so I can learn and be strong for myself. My mental and emotional state is at its happiest. That is what's important."

I know that I am not where I thought I'd be 9 years ago, but I know that life always has a funny way of making things work at its own pace and time. ~cheesy but true~ I'll get there soon enough. *wink

And of course, thank you! Thank you for letting me still do what I do because you guys still enjoy reading what I have to say. I am forever grateful! :) 

Before we end this post, here are some more photos from my Pajama Party! <3 

Thank you for reading! What party theme should I have for next year or am I a little too old for that? lol Let me know your thoughts in the comment section below. <3