Today marks another season of being who I’m meant to be.

16th of October 1996, at 3:10 AM. I’m not planned, the youngest of 5. Yes, you got it right! I’m their baby. And they say I’m a spoiled-tantrum child and gets whatever she wants back then. Everything must be new or that’s gonna be a problem if not. If you’re a parent, I guess you want what’s best for your child.

Of course, I’m not gonna tell my whole story here. So, people around me kept on asking what I wanted to do on my birthday. And it’s not really something to make fuss about, I’m just getting older. My only request is to spend it at home with good food, no phones, just quality time. And I can’t wait a day for that! Good thing, it falls on a Sunday, and they knew I’m not available as always on that day!

My heart was overwhelmed that days before Sunday, people were inviting me to spend time, catching up. I cannot imagine myself I actually have filled them up in my schedule. It was a week of celebration, indeed. It felt like I was special. And I guess it’s God’s way of saying, I got you, my daughter! It was a different kind of rest.

There was a team outing on a Saturday and to pray for them warmed my heart. I’m happy for the opportunity. It was full of fun-filled moments that I saved in my memory bank. I got to know them by heart. I wanted to sleep when I got home, I’m really tired. But I can’t cancel my plan with one of my former colleagues that was plotted a week before. I wore my usual comfortable clothes since it was raining. My tooth aches so I told both of them I’m just having an ice cream. Sorry Coach-Chef! And then I was surprised by THD fam, who remembers me even after a year. I can’t fathom what just happened there. And I got home dead tired!

Morning came, It was my 1st day of period and I’m in pain! Why today? Got personal greetings and messages from my family! They don’t wake me up on a Sunday. They just knew I’m awake by that time. As I spend time and read His word, I was reminded of His promises, peace and joy (Jeremiah 33:3 and 11; Romans 5; Zephaniah 3:17 “He will quiet you with His love”) And I began to write down prayer request, personal and family, ministry, church, workplace, and individuals I’m keeping in my prayers, so I won’t forget! I’m kinda forgetful.

So, I took my med, gotta spend breakfast with my best friends. Surprised me with a picnic and played monopoly surrounded by nature while having tacos, nutella pancakes, strawberry crepè and coffee. Life it is and I’m twenty six.

And we went back home and ate lunch with fam cooked by the best chef in the world, papa, whose slightly tipsy, already pa? Quality time! It’s my love language, and acts of service. My nieces gave me some presents! And sisters extending their love for me (My sister actually prepared a breakfast for me the following day just to make up). Then mama kissed me on my cheeks, and whispered “I prayed for you!” It was the best gift I received. And I went to my room and cried out to God for that special day, no, week. Little things that I might not gonna experience the second time around.

Later in the afternoon, I checked my phone and was grateful to all the people who sent their dms and post their greetings. I felt so special and loved, my heart was overflowing. My happy chemicals are on a high level that I’m being patient with myself to reply all of them. Ended the night with some counseling.

Every year, it’s one of a kind.

How about spending it with my person next year? 🤪