21.

Every birthday, people ask "How does it feel to be a year older?" and it's always just a little disappointed to admit that it feels pretty much the same. I looked forward all year to my 15th birthday as the day I'd finally feel a change. Then my 16th birthday. Then 18th. And even though those years came with big milestones and changes to make them special, I never felt that difference I was hoping for. Until now.

Last week I turned 21 and I can honestly say it feels different to be a year older--amazing and fun and scary all at the same time. Maybe it has something to do with the look of awe on my students' faces when I tell them my age. Maybe it's the confidence in my voice. "I'm 21." Maybe (probably) it's being able to hand my I.D. over to a waitress and get it back with a tasty cocktail and a smile. The point is, I'm a year older and it feels great.

That kind of feeling is worth celebrating, so I did! As per usual, my birthday is carrying over long past November 1st--I've got plans for birthday dates and festivities all the way to December when I get home to spend time with my family and friends in Texas. Here are some of the highlights from my Providence birthday adventures. 

 

Made my birthday wish on a red velvet cupcake.

A pineapple mojito at a (late) lunch at The Cheesecake Factory.

 Delicious birthday cookies from Evan.

Perfect party balloons from my mom's birthday package.