Birthday Celebrations!

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If you know me, you know that I LOVE my birthday. I love to tell everyone the day is coming, and I wait and keep a running list of who wishes me happy birthday. I love to take the day off and obnoxiously make it all about me. While I am usually very excited, this year felt different.

I have previously expressed that it has been a rough year. When you go through personal loss, and are tested professionally and personally it can really take a toll on you. All the above put a bit of a damper on my birthday and truly the only thing I wanted was to do absolutely nothing. Thankfully, I have a wonderful husband and beautiful friends that would not allow me to do just that.

The week before my birthday, Bryan planned a wonderful getaway to Newport Beach. I wanted to spend quality time with Bryan and Copper, remove ourselves from the Los Angeles distractions, and explore a new place together. But more than anything, I wanted no responsibility. I did not want to plan anything or think about what comes next. I wanted to just immerse myself in the moment. Thanks to Bryan, I was able to do just that. We had brunch by the water, walked the neighborhood, hit the local shops, and enjoyed some Newport staple restaurants. It was the best escape. I thought I was done with my birthday...short, sweet and simple.

On my actual birthday, Bryan grilled steaks (it is his new favorite pastime to use the backyard grill), we drank wine, and watched the NBA playoffs. One of the first things we connected over was our love for sports, so these evenings are always special to me. The weekend of my actual birthday, my friend Marc planned one of his amazing dinners. These dinners are filled with fantastic food, great music, incredible drinks, and invaluable conversations. Marc is always full of surprises in the spirit of a good time and this surprise consisted of a birthday celebration for me! The menu was dated with my birthday and a special shout out. As the evening progressed, the party lights came on, a DJ popped up, and the dancing began. We vogued, salsa danced, twerked, and everything in between. Friends continued to arrive, and it seemed something new was happening as each hour passed. Then, a saxophonist entered the house and stole the show. He free styled to every song that was played no matter the genre and it was an impeccable touch to a flawless evening. Towards the end of night, the saxophonist played “Happy Birthday” as everyone gathered and sang. I could not have asked for a better evening. Thank you, Marc!

Sometimes you need those people in your life that see something in and for you that you cannot see for yourself. It hits harder than ever that tomorrow is not promised with such sudden deaths this year, but also makes you realize that it is time to make the most of every moment. It teaches you not to dwell in the negativity and complain but to be grateful for life, love, and everything that comes with it. The two greatest takeaways and feelings from my 37th birthday are grateful and blessed.

Be sure to check out my birthday highlight reel on my instagram, @therachlindsay

Xo Honestly, Rach