I just celebrated my 42nd birthday. As a child, my mom always made a big deal of birthdays, even though culturally birthdays aren’t really celebrated in Vietnam. We didn’t have much money, but there was always cake, presents and festivities. A few years ago I was flipping through old photos and noticed she recycled the party hats for many years, but I still felt like a princess every single year.
As an adult, I’ve spent my birthdays surrounded by friends, family and partners. White river rafting, kayaking, dinner parties and BBQs. This year, I decided to spend my birthday by myself in the woods. My days and nights are booked solid and a quiet retreat for some Annie-time seemed like a perfect way to celebrate my big day. My car turned off the highway and the Buena Vista Social Club was blaring on my Ipod. My body visibly sighed as I zoomed by rivers, trees, farmhouses and cows, feeling a bit overwhelmed by the beauty of the Northwest.
I stayed in my family’s cabin in Cle Elum, Washington – a huge house that includes 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 lofts and a hot tub. Every morning, I’d wake up, brew some coffee and walk out to the river watching the swallows darting in the water and trees. My fatal flaw was reading a scary novel that made me a bit jumpy. Lots of noises in the woods and houses creak. I love being alone, but instead found myself feeling lonely. Lately, I’ve been getting nostalgic for Seattle, preparing myself for the big move to Southeast Asia this fall. I watch 4th of July fireworks and in between the ooh’s and aah’s realize it will be many years before I’m back for this holiday.
In a few months, I’ll leave Seattle again and will have plenty of solo-time in Vietnam. As I turn 42 in the woods alone, I realize now is the time for friends and family.
Sucking the Marrow from Life 
Happy Birthday, Annie. You don’t look a day over 30. Ironically, I was told last week I look 42.
Vu, Cam on em! Spending a month in Vietnam this summer will bring out your inner youth 😉
wherever you are, we will always be here (or there!) for you. Corny, I know, but it had to be said.
love you Annie,
D.
Debora, thank you sweetie! I know that whether I am 150 or 15,000 miles away we are always in each other’s hearts. xo
Happy Bday Annie! Thanks for sharing…sounds like a great way to charge up before returning to SE Asia. Hope I get to see you before that!
Cindy, thanks! Sorry to miss your birthday party but will in be Hawaii.
What a perfect way to spend your birthday. Sometimes we need to have time to ourselves, sit back and enjoy our own company! Next time, maybe we can fill the cabin up and celebrate in the woods together… count me in! Just tell me which airport to arrive at, and I’ll be there…… Sure hope to see you in Vietnam next year… Where will you be based??? And what will you be doing, GVN??.. My home has the door open for you any time you get down under. Happy Dayz to you Annie, Love Judexxoo
Judy, big birthday bash in Danang in 2012! I’ll be studying Vietnamese my first six months, so I can communicate with my adopted child! I’ll continue non-profit and philanthropic consulting from Danang – it’s a good life! Hope to see you in New Zealand or Vietnam next year.
love you Annie..you are always an inspirations to me. anytime you need a friend..i’m always here. wishing you all the best. hugs to you and mom! happy birthday..i’m behind you…will be turing 42 in October as well. maybe we can have lunch before you leave Seattle.
Cherie
Cherie, I thought you were older then me! Hope to see you at the Pig Roast or Bon Odori this weekend. xo
Wonderful entry, Annie. Solo time in the woods sounds like a perfect celebration. I’m admire and am always so impressed by how self-aware you are and your willingness to be true to yourself. Happy birthday!
Trang
Trang, you are my outdoorsy hero! Looking forward to our kayaking date next week!
I’m hoping maybe next year I can help you celebrate, here in Vietnam. I really look forward to having you back!!
Mona
Mona, we will definitely celebrate next year in Vietnam. Can’t wait to see you soon!
Happy belated birthday, Annie! This entry has me actually missing Central Washington as well as Seattle, who knew. Your wisdom is way beyond your years!
Rachel, I’m impressed you spent time in Central Washington while you were in Seattle! Washington is a glorious state and I’m going to explore every nook and cranny before I leave.
I predict that you will be surrounded by love, the wonder and beauty of this great place called earth, by new friends, children, your mother’s spirit. have a great time and looking forward to seeing you here soon. aley
Aley, I love your prediction since it is already true. I’m too lucky. xo
I’ve been having similar feelings myself and thinking about the truth in a quote from Archbishop Tutu who in speaking about the African principle Ubuntu said, “You can’t be human all by yourself.”
Danielle, Thanks for the quote and I love your new blog!
That’s a terrific insight Annie, hope you get your fill of family and friends to sustain you when you’re in Vietnam. I assume there’ll be a big send-off partay coming soon? : )
Quang, I had three going away parties in 2009 so think the official parties are over. But there’s always room for more celebrations!
If time is money you’ve made me a weealhitr woman.
Back in school, I’m doing so much learning.