Reflecting on my birthday

I just had a birthday a few days ago, so I’ve been thinking a lot about my goals and different ways to improve my life. I was also remembering that last year this time I wasn’t eating a high raw, I was still on my standard foodie diet.  I remember eating way too many cupcakes, my former favorite, during my birthday week. Here is a shot of my birthday cupcakes from last year.

I’m so glad I’m not eating those cupcakes anymore. I enjoyed them while I ate them, but always felt out of balance afterward because of all the sugar and white flour. This year I have more energy than I’ve ever had and I’m happier since I’ve cut out all that junk.

I got so many thoughtful gifts from my family. My son got me a strawberry pot and gardening supplies.

My husband got me some really nice cookbooks, including one on raw foods. It was really special because it shows me that he is accepting my diet. When I first started on raw foods he thought I was going through a phase, now he knows it will always be a part of my life.

But, birthdays are not all about gifts. My husband and I had a nice dinner together and spent a quiet night alone, thanks to my in laws, who watched our son. After we got home from dinner I realized that I was celebrating my birthday with food. Since I’ve changed my diet I’ve been more conscious of this. I don’t think food should be used to celebrate anything. I do enjoy eating, but next year I don’t want to go to dinner for my birthday.  I think I’ll plan a hiking trip instead.