my 23rd birthday.

I turned 23 on November 1st. And I have to admit, I wasn't really looking forward to the day very much because I thought it would be weird not being with my family and the same friends I've celebrated with for the past few years.

But I shouldn't have worried because it ended up being a great day*...

I woke up to a message from Alanna that said "Wakey wakey, birthday girl." 

Katie called me at 6:30am and sang "happy birthday." 

When I opened my door to leave for work, I was surprised by a card, helium balloons, and a piece of cake from Alanna. 

Melissa wrote me an amazing blog post and almost made me cry. 

Mathew brought me a mug of Baileys on the rocks. (I asked if it was straight and he said, "Of course." I cringed and then said, "I'm 23 so I'll woman up!" It was delicious.)

Katie brought me a "monster" cupcake. 

A group of us went to Blue Frog, where we ate fantastic burgers. 

I had a couple electric lemonades. And a piece of birthday cheesecake. (I wished for the same thing I always wish for.)

I called my mom and while I was talking to her I opened the presents she mailed me. 

Then I called my Nan. 

(I talked to my dad the next day.)

I received sweet messages from friends and family throughout the day. (Thank God for Facebook.)

Yup, my 23rd birthday ended up being pretty great. Thanks to my family and friends, new and old.

*I ended up sobbing while I was on the phone with my mom. And then I cried a bit while talking to my Nan. Couldn't help it, guys. It seems I get homesick on the "important" days. Like Thanksgiving and birthdays. And probably Christmas. BUT! I didn't cry as much as I did on my last birthday.