Cake Cake Cake Cake!

Ladies and gentlemen, we've entered the Roaring Twenties! In the past, I've celebrated my birthday in beautiful, vibrant cities like Paris (16, 18) and New York (19), but this year I celebrated my birthday in the City of Brotherly Love. I can't think of a better way to ring in two decades of living than spending time with the people whose lives and friendships have made me a better human being.

The day began with a birthday brunch at The Dandelion pub in Rittenhouse Square. Friends came from New York, Philly, and my hometown to brunch-out like Brits at my new favorite restaurant. The day ended with a family dinner overlooking Spruce Street Harbor Park and a killer concert at Penn's Landing with my friend Kristen, who's more like a sister.

Thank you to everyone who sent birthday greetings! I'm humbled by the amazing individuals who prompt me to celebrate life. Cheers to 20 years!

Why birthdays are the greatest: people shower you with gifts,
candy, laughter, and more candy (thanks, Jessica). 

In two decades, not a whole lot has changed. Dress-up
is still my favorite activity (in close second: being a ham).
Pictured: Tracy Reese dress, MAC lipstick in 'Morange.'

Mandatory photo-shoot on the steps of Anthropology
in Rittenhouse. 

Me and my lovely Philly roommate, Jessica.

Six of my dearest friends joined me for a birthday brunch at The Dandelion
pub in Rittenhouse Square.

The food and decor at The Dandelion was perfectly British.

...and their scones are to die for.

Ciara, my roommate from school, came all the way from
NYC to celebrate with me! As always, she brought plenty
of giggles.

Me and my big, Chelsey, posing under the hanging urns
at The Dandelion.

The Dandelion gets everything so right, right down to the
end-of-meal birthday dessert: chocolate cherry ice cream and
a homemade butter cookie crown.

The Fray concert was the perfect end to an amazing birthday
in Philly. I've been listening to Isaac Slade (pictured above)
for the past decade, and seeing him perform live was surreal.