Turning 31 feels a bit more dramatic than turning 30. 30 might be ‘that age’ where everyone thinks you should be a grown up, but 31 is actually in your 30s. You’re not just 30, you’re 30-something. And that feels a whole lot scarier.
Of course, nothing says adulting like ignoring something and pretending it’s not happening, so I seized the opportunity to treat myself rather than dwell on how many decades I’ve been on this planet for. I had a whole 24 hours away from constantly being at someone else’s beck and call, was showered with presents and ate a lot of treats.
The celebrations kicked off a few days early when Dom made me a lovely birthday picnic. Jenson always enjoys a picnic. Why does food always taste better when you’re sat on the floor?
I had an incredible day and night at St Moritz Hotel. Check out my full review post here.
And I was lucky enough to receive loads of wonderful presents – mostly of the paper-based and self-care variety. Get ready for a look at some of what I received, including peeks inside books and journals.
I’m sensing a theme here…
Luke’s sister got me the Wonka scented gel pens I shared on my Stories recently. They’re so pretty!
After listening to Megan C. Hayes on Hashtag Authentic recently, I added Write Yourself Happy to my wish list and was so excited to unwrap a copy – along with a journal gift set! I’ll be giving the book a read during my Christmas break ready to start a new journal on 1 January. Look out for a review soon but here are a few internal pics in the meantime.
My mum got me a copy of Michelle Obama’s Becoming, a feminist mug and a stunning journal. I keep putting off setting up my bujo for the new year so this is perfect, as it comes pre-laid out. Check out some of the spreads.
I also received a copy of Kindness Every Day. I think I’ll use this to track daily acts of kindness and gratitude in the new year.
And Dom put together a beautiful self-care package. I’m looking forward to my next night off already.
Are you ready for the best socks ever?
On my actual birthday, we headed to Truro for the afternoon and had lunch at Pizza Express. The Christmas menu includes pigs in blankets starters/sides. I’m not exaggerating when I say it’s one of the best dishes I’ve ever tasted. Go get some.
As always, I spent about an hour in Waterstones trying to decide what to spend my voucher on. I created a wish list for my birthday and Christmas and so I’m not sure what titles Father Chistmas will bring. Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine was a safe choice, as I discovered this stunning edition post-wish list. I’m a sucker for beautiful books and also picked up this cute pocket-sized Courage Calls to Courage Everywhere.
I was given a bit of money too and finally bought myself one of the Bronte Readers Club sweatshirts from Joanie – they’re still 40% off and I highly recommend ordering one.
Maybe turning 31 ain’t so bad after all.
Happy Birthday! Love that unicorn paper
Thanks ❤ Bit cute ain’t it.
Belated birthday wishes… Oh wow lovely gifts… I loved this post for the warmth and joy in it
Glad you had a good birthday. I love that copy of Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine was tempted. Wanted to go to Waterstones but haven’t had chance. I turn 30 this yr. I don’t feel great about it which is probably silly, especially because I look younger. Get offended when people call me (customers at work) young lady. I didn’t think about 31 being scarier makes sense. For me it’s not so much about getting older but the fact that I seem stuck in the same place. I shouldn’t be negative I got a house this yr.
I get that, it’s easy to feel stuck in a rut and birthdays can remind you of that. I don’t feel like I’ve progressed at all this year.
I’m glad you had a good birthday. I turned 30 this year and was dreading it! But it’s not been as bad as I expected lol. I love the gifts you got especially the self care package and the ‘Picture Me’ journal, I’ve just added it to my own wish list.
I think it’s pretty cheap in Sainsurys at the mo 👍