festival of j..

yes, i've just turned 29 years 'young'..

and at risk of falling into the cliche category.. i am one of those woman who freaks out about growing old.. though the neurosis has toned down over the years.. i did catch fleeting moments of sheer anxiety in midst of the festivity..

i did wanted to lay low this year.. i've been lucky to be blessed with many surprise celebrations organised in my honour.. but this year.. with the absence of big mammal and the fact that i'm onto the last number that starts with 2-something.. i really am quite content with just some quality time with the special ppl in my life...

it started with a shopping trip on thrusday taking good advantage of the stocktake sales..

then, a 'special' party on friday with my workmates which i've signed a confidentiality agreement not to blog abt it or post any photographic evidence..

and on my b'day.. (i.e. today).. i shared a High Tea with my family..

I got some fantastic presents!! some yummy lip balm, a how to be goddess book (like i need help in that! ha! actually.. yep.. lots of help.. so this 'manual' should come in handy), a facial voucher, a stamp so i can exercise my professional knowledge at parties (see left.. yes it says 'insane'.. and i'm hoping that this simple categorisation will make the world a better place..)..

there were some rocky moments, and yes there were tears.. but the 'ah-ha' moment came with the fortune cookie on my high tea cake tier.. picture on the top of the blog.. soo.. in the end.. i've allowed myself to relax in the midst of the chaos..

i must at admit, i'm the most comfortable and content with who i am and what i've achieved in my life than i've ever been.. i know myself a lot better, i can see things clearer, i've accepted the greys in life, i'm grateful for all the ppl i've been blessed to share my life with.. and i'm embracing life and myself just as it is..

but most of all, i feel peace..

though i'm not exactly enlightened or buzzing with wisdom like the dalai lama.. but for the first time, i have a glimpse of the strength of my inner happy on my experience of the external world.. the oasis, the sanctuary.. that will keep me sane and calm as i navigate through this crazy world with all it's crazy ppl n crazy things.. and the capacity to love all of it.. (well... most of the time)..

and it feels.. quite nice..

so does my Egyptian cotton 1100 thread count sheets from my lil sis! *purrrrr*