Toibration: A Birthday Celebration of Life, Joy, and Self-Care

Happy Birthday! Every year, I dedicate ten days to celebrating me—my journey, my growth, my joy. This isn’t just a birthday countdown or a collection of plans to fill time. Toibration is an intentional, sacred tradition that reminds me to honor myself, embrace adventure, and nurture the relationships and experiences that bring light into my life.

In a world that constantly demands movement—work, responsibilities, commitments—how often do we pause to truly appreciate ourselves? Toibration is my reminder that life deserves celebration, and that self-care is more than an occasional indulgence—it’s the foundation for living well.

As we move deeper into spring, I encourage you to find your own version of Toibration—whether that means setting aside days to celebrate, embracing small rituals of joy, or simply allowing yourself space to experience life without guilt.

Reflecting on Toibration Birthday 2025

This year’s ten-day celebration was nothing short of incredible. It was a blend of excitement, relaxation, connection, and self-reflection—a perfect harmony of adventure and restoration. Every day held a unique energy, reminding me of the importance of embracing joy in all its forms.

Day 1: The Thrill of Play

Kicking off Toibration with Beat the Bomb was the perfect way to start—high-energy, teamwork-driven, and filled with laughter. Sharing this experience with Akira, Kenneth, and Marques set the tone for a celebration rooted in fun and connection.

Day 2: Art, Elegance, and Theater

A stunning dinner at Casa Nonna, followed by the mesmerizing magic of Hadestown in Delaware. The combination of fine dining and artistic immersion was a reminder of how powerful stories can be in shaping our experiences.

Day 3: Beauty and Brunch

A bottomless mimosa brunch at Moshulu gave way to an afternoon of tranquility at Longwood Gardens. There’s something about nature that offers the deepest kind of peace—the kind that settles into your soul and stays with you.

Day 4: Movement and Celebration

Running the Broad Street Run was a challenge, but crossing that finish line? Pure exhilaration. Ending the day with a taco feast at Juana Tamale was the perfect way to celebrate strength, perseverance, and well-earned indulgence.

Day 5: Friendship and Flavor

Lunch at Fava (content coming this weekend) with my girl Amanda (Phillyfoodandbarrs) reminded me how much I cherish quality time with friends over good food. We don’t just eat—we share stories, dreams, and laughter.

Day 6: Patio Nights and Toasts to New Beginnings

Drinks at Testa Rossa in Glen Mills for their patio opening reminded me how much I love spaces designed for community. Every celebration should have moments to simply breathe, sip, and be present.

Day 7: New Beginnings in Style

Receiving my 2025 Sequoia 1794 Edition was one of the major highlights! A new car, new adventures, and endless possibilities.  Content is loading soon! The night continued with friends at Flight Club, where we let loose in spirited competition and camaraderie.

Day 8: Science, Discovery, and Skyline Views

Visiting Body World at The Franklin Institute during their adults-only night was a fascinating experience. There’s something about learning and exploring that reignites curiosity in the best way. Closing the evening with rooftop views? The perfect finale.

Day 9: The Power of Rest

This was my reset day, my moment to fully unplug, unwind, and reflect. Too often, we focus on doing—Toibration reminds me that being is just as important.

Day 10: A Refresh and Family Connection

A fresh new look after a hair appointment, peaceful moments at Chanticleer Gardens, and quality time with family in Lancaster—especially with my twin for some birthday fun. Ending Toibration with love and connection was the best possible way to close out the celebration.

Lessons Learned: Growth Through Change, Friendship & Strength

One of the most powerful things Toibration has taught me this year is that everything can change—sometimes suddenly, sometimes gradually, but always in ways that shape us. Life is fluid, and learning to adapt, embrace, and evolve is a skill that brings both resilience and peace.

This year, I’ve also come to appreciate the truth that friends are everything in every phase of life. There is something incredibly grounding about knowing you have people who support you through the highs, the lows, and the unexpected turns. Friends aren’t just there for the fun moments—they hold space for growth, they challenge perspectives, and they remind us that we are never alone in our journey.

And finally, the theme for the rest of my personal year is learning to stretch and do hard things. Growth doesn’t happen in comfort—it happens in the moments when we push beyond our limits, when we try something new, when we lean into discomfort and let it sharpen us instead of scare us. This is the season of boldness, strength, and taking the leap—because life waits for no one, and I am ready to embrace it fully.

Spring is the Season of Self-Care—Here’s How to Embrace It

As the world begins to bloom, it’s time to lean into renewal, joy, and self-care. Toibration may be a personal tradition, but the message is universal—you deserve to celebrate yourself.

• Prioritize Rest – Whether it’s a nap, a spa day, or simply a few hours of peace, give yourself permission to slow down.
• Reconnect with Nature – Gardens, parks, or even a simple backyard moment—let spring’s beauty ground you.
• Enjoy Food Without Guilt – Savor meals, try new restaurants, and indulge in flavors that make you happy.
• Move Your Body – Dance, run, stretch—find movement that feels good and energizes you.
• Make Time for Joy – Whether it’s a night out, a solo date, or time with loved ones, actively choose happiness.
• Give Yourself a Refresh – Change up your routine, invest in self-care, and embrace new experiences that inspire growth.

Keep Celebrating, One Day at a Time

You don’t need ten days to honor yourself—you just need intentionality. Take the small moments. Find joy in the everyday. Make time for the things that make you feel alive.

So, how are you celebrating YOU today? Let’s continue embracing life, one beautiful moment at a time. Happy birthday to all the May birthdays including my oldest who celebrates towards the end of the month!