GOLDEN BIRTHDAY

FEBRUARY 2 - 5, 2018

Technically my golden birthday was way back in 1998, but because I was only 3 years old, I have zero recollection of it. Sooo, because I turned 23 on February (2) 3rd, I decided this year would be my golden birthday. 

We spent the weekend visiting two of my favorite cousins in Yangon, Myanmar. From the Shwedagon Pagoda to the golden sunsets, Yangon radiates gold, which correlated perfectly with my golden birthday theme. 

The festivities began Friday night, catching up with my cousins over Myanmar beers. Saturday we started our day off exploring the Shwedagon Pagoda, followed by a delicious Burmese lunch at the Ragoon Tea House, and finishing the day with a sunset balloon ride over the city. That night we continued to celebrate, while experiencing some very unique music at a punk rock concert and Myanmar hip hop show. Sunday we "attempted" to visit an abandoned amusement park and, of course, had to do some souvenir shopping at the Bogyoke market. 

Fun Fact: The Shwedagon Pagoda is divided into eight parts because according to Myanmar traditional astronomy there are eight days a week. Each day of the the week is assigned a numerical number is sign, similar to the Chinese or Western Zodiac. For example, I was born on a Friday so my number is 7 and my sign is a Guinea Pig. This day of the week is very important in Myanmar culture and if you visits a pagoda in Myanmar you will notice people praying on their respective days of the week. 

I couldn't ask for a better golden birthday full of family, friends, good food, and fun! Cheers to 23!