So, my birthday is this Saturday. Not a landmark year, unless you consider the last birthday before the quarter-century mark a milestone – I’ll be 24.
I actually feel as though I’ve been meant to be in my mid-twenties for a while now, so I’m feeling pretty good about turning a year “older.” [Because twenty-anything is not old, even if I have friends who are married]. 23 was a tough year, so I’m ready to move on to a fresh one.
I’ve never been one to hype my birthday or expect grand celebrations – I’ve done the crazy nights out a couple times, but this year, I plan to spend the day more quietly. I don’t need to do a lot to celebrate – just a nice bottle of wine, a good outfit, the people I love. Maybe some vegetables too.
Some birthday essentials:
A fancy family meal in a couple weeks – I didn’t reserve a spot at Blue Hill in time, but other ideas are currently being debated. Suggestions are welcome. 
Fall inspired attire. [Not winter clothing, as the absurd New York weather had us in last weekend].
A home-cooked, Leslie-style dinner. [This would be remnants-of-the-fridge curry].
Wine, of course – my favorite beverage.
Some autumn sun, I hope.
Some theater, perhaps. [As you can see from the box, another of my passions].
Likely, there will also be chocolate, which I actually prefer to cake.
How did you spend your birthday this year?
Related posts:
I went to Vegas
Wishing you an early happy birthday!!
love this post! and happy almost b-day beautiful! this year will be the best one yet!
Blue Hill, my Dad celebrated his b-day there! ive heard wonderful things about it! hmmm maybe try Artisnanal http://www.artisanalbistro.com/
my vegan friend from IP, she was in her 20’s went there for her birthday and had a great time and meal, and its my uncles favorite
love your b-day essentials, wine, a show, a wonderful outfit, sunny autumn ny weather and a great meal! enjoy!
xo
maya
happy almost birthday
!! i know you will have an amazing day! hmmmm any suggestions for a restaurant? well my favorite is Balthazar, but if you are willing to go into brooklyn i love Ici, its a great little restaurant so fresh and seasonal produce and beautiful atmosphere! 
xx
Eliza
Lovely pictures, Leslie! I hope you spend your day filled with your birthday essentials. An early happy birthday to you.
Although my birthday this year was bittersweet, I’m glad to have spent it with my Mum and family. I’m not fond of big parties so I was perfectly satisfied sharing my birthday meal at home.
Happy [almost] birthday! Although I had a hard time turning 23 I’ll be sad to see it go. Luckily I can hang onto it for a few more months!
Great way to spend your Birthday. I spent mine with a family meal and a night out with friends.
Aw I’m so excited for your birthday (and the recaps to follow)! My mom’s birthday is Friday and I’m going home for it. I haven’t been home for my birthday (November 5th) in 3 years because of college and all….it’s always sucked, I gotta say
But this year, I’m going home the day after!!
PS–I love your plans
I hope they all come true!
i cant wait to see photos of your birthday after saturday, i’m sure you will come up with somwthing very original.
i spend my birthday out with my closest friends at a bar called hacienda. it was in the middle of the jungle but so romantic. it was a really lovely evening
I turned 21 so I went out to dinner with some friends and officially had my first legal beer. My roommate also made me a cake and my parents sent me flowers…it was nice!
Happy almost bday!
I’ve done the craziness before and totally prefer an extended birthday weekend (no matter what day it falls on–I claim them all) full of family, a few close friends, some favorite foods and relaxation.
I hope you make plans to do just what you want to do, and I look forward to the recap!
Happy Birthday lovely!
love all your photos!
My Birthday was spent at a bar.. dancing, and playing pool. Nothing tooo faboosh.
Yay for your pretty photos and awesome blog…that I have missed dearly. I spent my birthday this year dining with my american fam and then having a raging house party. It was fun and not at all grown up…ew who wants a grown up bday? Not me.
ooo t-4 days
i love birthdays. the elements you desire in yours sound lovely & simple – a day to appreciate the truly good things in life.
my bday is next month
♥
Ah, the mid-twenties. Angst, angst, angst. Still in mine.
But I like to believe that each year of our lives should and can be better than the one before — none of this mainstream American youth-idealization BS. Age is wisdom.