Birthday on the beach

For the last nineteen years I have spent the majority of my Birthdays in cold, wet and sometimes icy conditions. Birthday celebrations were subject to change depending on the clemency of the weather. Sleepovers were cancelled at the very last minute due to ice on the roads. Cinema trips were postponed because of the sharp chill in the air.

However this year was not the same as the rest. I spent my twentieth Birthday in the dazzling sunshine. And I didn't have to wear a coat and thick boots. I wore a light cardigan and jeans with a rip in the knee.

I walked on the beach and went hunting for pretty seashells. And it was warm enough to eat a salad for dinner. I found a sand dollar on my Birthday.

And I wore my sunglasses.

I didn't walk around with dumb toes either.

Or a scarf and gloves.

I rode in a car with the windows down.

Birthdays in California are the very best.

California Calling....

I am so excited about starting Bible college. It's a whole new chapter of my life. I did have a real desire to go but money always dissuaded me. I never really voiced this desire either because I thought it was so impossible that there was no point really. I will forever be amazed at how God knows all those secret things you want, and sometimes brings them about without you even realising it. I never asked to go to Bible college, I never made any plans to go, I never saved any money specifically for it; but I now find myself filling out visa forms and selling all my surplus stuff, and winter clothes ready for a new life in California.

The daunting task of reducing my life into a couple of suitcases is looming. And I had no idea that suitcases were so expensive!

I am so excited to get learning!! I've never been to school and for the last three years I've been my own teacher. I am actually looking forward to having homework deadlines, and having someone else predict my grades for me. I'm actually going to have to be in class on time. I am so thrilled.

The idea of living in sunny California for two years is so exciting, I still haven't quite grasped it. I love the sun, for someone who was born in the middle of winter I can't stand the cold! During the winter months I sleep beneath two duvets and three fleece blankets, and I wear hoodies and socks and a hat, etc........
 So I'm looking forward to keeping my sunglasses out for more than three months of the year.

And the idea of having a barbecue for my Birthday this year, well, I have no words for the excitement that brings!!

Annnnd, let's not forget thrift stores! I can't wait to check those out. I do love a good bargain!

So many things to look forward to!!