Best Birthday Yet

I turned twenty seven in early February this year, and with the new age comes the new season. I awoke in my hometown, with the plan of falling into slumber in the city of my dreams: the City of Cape Town! Before that, I had only ever known life in small towns with little adventure. My life-long dream was to visit the Mother city, or better yet, make it my home. Little did I realise, this out-of-reach projection was merely a two hour flight away from home and finding freedom with my fingertips!

The sunrise set my morning ablaze, reminding me of new beginnings. I was emotional hearing from loved ones, with it being my birthday and also the day I leave to venture out. During the flight, I was accompanied by the warm sun and thoughts of home, both old and new. I felt sad, remembering what I’m leaving behind but then felt empowered, remembering what I’m starting anew.

Landing in Cape Town feels like finally coming home to your dog – we both waited and we both can’t believe it’s finally happening! I looked over at Table Mountain and smugly said “I told you I’ll be back.”. I knew this was the right move for me, the city makes me so happy. Gathering my bags, I called for an Uber and headed straight to my new abode.

The keys to my new place were presented in a gift box wrapped with a little bow – a birthday present aesthetic! I found this cute and heartwarming, because these little tangible keys open up doors that lead to exciting experiences!

I spent ALL of my birthday doing the heavy lifting, cleaning, organizing and trying to get my life together. At first the place looked like I was on that show called “Hoarders”, but as the day progressed, I realized that I just got older instead.

I prioritized my tasks for the day so that I don’t get overstimulated and pass out on my birthday of all days. I set up my bedroom, put up curtains, assembled my desk, set up the necessities in the kitchen and organized the bathroom. 

Amidst the gradual loss of stamina and social battery that can be expected during a moving day, I couldn’t help but stop to take it all in. I had complaints of feeling exhausted, but then I turned on the fans and sipped on an ice-cold Coke and never felt more thankful. 

I didn’t care for a mansion, or an all paid vacation overseas. I was happy with the little things that get overlooked most times, like basic needs of water and electricity, a fridge full of food and a warm and comfortable bed to rest. 

I’ve had many memorable birthdays growing up, filled with parties, overflowing gifts and the prettiest dresses that caused envy. But this birthday was my favorite – the keys in the little box. My new place showered me with freedom, independence, comfort and pride! I was driven to take the first steps in my new place, with the intention of making the world my personal runway!