turning 23

With all that has happened the past one year, 23 marks a turning point in my life.
So many things happened, and I really don't know where to begin.

But there was one man, who saw me through all of it.

He was there when my life was thrown into turmoil. He showed me what it means to not only be loved, but more importantly, to be respected. He accepted everything about me, and hurt for me in a way no one ever did. He fought for me when I didn't have the courage to. He was there every single time I needed to escape, all those times I shut myself away from everyone else. He made my problems, his problems. He stood by me when I struggled with friendships, became the only confidante I could trust with all my heart. He was ever so patient in his love, (literally). He tolerated and forgave all those times I failed him. He made my wishes his commands, always gave so abundantly, and unconditionally.

Above all, he changed my life.

(Sure it sounds cliche, and even he doubts it. But my best friend can justify that. He really did.)

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Dearest Poop,

Before you start getting all shy and deny all that I'm saying (like you always do), I want to thank you. Thank you for being you. I hope you'll one day be able to see for yourself what an exceptional person you are, instead of dropping your head and turning away whenever I tell you so. (But that actually just adds to your humbleness which I very much admire as well.) I don't know which princess' heart you broke by stepping out of the fairytale you came from, but thank you for making me feel like a princess all the time. Heh.

Thank you for all the thought and effort (and money, sigh) put into planning that crazy birthday celebration for me. (And thank you for taking leave even though it's a hella busy period for you at work!) I was all excited and nervous when you told me to pack my bag on Wednesday. And of course, knowing how I never stay out without asking Mummy, I was slightly worried that she might say no (although she never does, heh - thanks mummy). But that worry was all for nothing after finding out that you've already asked for her permission wayyy back, while we were still in US! (':

I really enjoyed our stay at Westin. Thank you for arranging that little surprise with the hotel! The room was really nice, and I regret not taking more pictures with you (other than the two blurry selfies we took before leaving the room). It was so sweet to see you continuously checking your watch just to make sure you wished me on the dot. (':

Anddd, the present! Wow. I wanted to get this insta printer a while back, and now I have it thanks to you! "I noticed you have so many boxes of films and have been wanting to get you this for a while." Thank you for being so sweet and observant, and for "filling (this) gap". Heh.

The next morning we went to the temple to see Daddy. It's the first time you went there with me and it means so much. Thank you for making this a part of your plan, I truly appreciate it!

I was sooooo happy finding out that we were heading to the Zoo! (I really have this thing for Zoos.) Thank you for remembering that I want to head there with you, and for making it come true on my special day! And and and, thank you for taking note of the Otters feeding time, and because of you, I got to FEED THE OTTERS. Thank you so much, love!

Just when I thought the day was coming to an end, you played it so well and tricked me into another surprise that you planned with Eudea. (Thank you so much for everything babe!!) Thank you again 

Hun, for booking such a lovely room at New Majestic Hotel. It was so nice and cosy, I loved it (but I love you more)! So it was not only one night out, but two! Felt like I was on a vacation. (':

I didn't want this to be about my birthday, but it was too amazing I had to blog about it. Heh. But really, thank you for being in my life and for making such a difference. You truly are my greatest gift. I look forward to all the adventures we have ahead together, and all the indelible memories that we'll create in time to come.

This is so old school, but it really speaks my heart. So, here's to you:

Love always,

Your Tof

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To the people who matter the most, thank you for taking time out to have an early birthday dinner with me! I truly am blessed to be a part of this ever loving family. (Missing you, bro!)

Thank you for coming down and helping to do up the place:

Eudz, Jovyn, Yiu Jin, Mei Po, Joe, Piti, Nicole and Thivya!

Thank you Nic for getting the drinks and for coming even though you're unwell!

Thank you Joe and Piti for getting the cake! It really wasn't bad. Hahaha.

    

Thank you for the glow sticks-bathtub-treasure hunt surprise (even though it was so crazy having to pack up after, hahaha). Those messages on the block letters mean so much to me! Honestly don't know what I've done to deserve such amazing friends like all of you! Thank you so much. (':

Thank you everyone who were a part of the video (that brought me to tears):

Lynette, Pamela, Jieying, Joe, Piti, Pey, Jovyn, Eudea's Mummy, Natalie, Peijun, Priscilla, Momo, Bro, Bonnie, Ee, Echeong, Kim, Ken, Popo and Mummy!

And of course, thank you everyone who wished me be it through text, Instagram or Facebook!
I really really appreciate it. (:

Ending this post with something that I'm really excited about! Thank you to all those who have expressed your interest. Once I confirm the numbers, I'll get back to you with the final details.

Again, all are welcome! Family, friends, plus ones, plus twos... anyone! Hope to see you there (: