Today’s tidbit: “The more you praise and celebrate your life, the more there is in life to celebrate.”

— Oprah Winfrey
Something to remember… live and celebrate your life, don’t just exist.

Twenty-four…where does the time go? I can’t believe next year I will be 25! Like my blog mentioning little details, I am all about the little things. A handmade card, a little note, surprise flowers… those have always been the little things that mean so much more to me, and this year for my birthday I was pleasantly surprised throughout the day. My ideal day would be spending it with close friends and family relaxing and trying new things…and that’s exactly what I got this year. It was really a three-tier birthday. I had a celebration at work, and then came home to my room full of surprises from my roommates and boyfriend! I loved all the handmade cards and notes on the white boards. Red velvet GF cupcakes were waiting along with Sammy’s very own cupcake (which he inhaled).

Sneak peek image: 24th Birthday Celebrations.

Be sure to click below to read more and check out the slideshow. Enjoy!

That night we got dressed up and met my closest friends at a new restaurant, La Tasca, in Old Town Alexandria that I’ve wanted to try. The food was incredible, the drinks were amazing and the candle lit atmosphere was so cozy. The following day I had a family birthday at one of my favorite restaurants, Big Bowl in Reston Town Center. To top it off, my birthday weekend was spent exploring downtown Leesburg and staying at the Lansdowne Resort thanks to my amazing boyfriend. After a relaxing  Swedish massage, we walked around the resort watching part of a wedding going on. We then explored Leesburg and had a fabulous 3-course meal at Lightfoot. Complimentary champagne topped off the night. It was the perfect weekend.

It’s days like this that allow me to reflect and be so incredibly thankful for all the friendships and wonderful family I have. Each of you plays a big role in who I am today.