Watching the birthday cake being ceremoniously carried over to my friend, tiny warm flames from the candles lit up her face – and as she looked around the room, her eyes filled with love and appreciation.
‘Happy birthday to you,’ we all sang in unison, and my friend smiled, making a wish as she blew out her candles. It was her 50th birthday, an important milestone to celebrate, and my friend had decided to go all out. A sit-down meal in a beautiful venue, with flowers, fizz, a stunning cake and gorgeous decorations, it truly was the most perfect day.
A classic introvert
But while I loved being a part of my friend’s celebrations, I knew there was no way I’d be following suit when it came to my own 50th. See, for as long as I can remember, I’ve hated the limelight, and I have to admit when the lockdown was announced in March, I quickly counted down the weeks, wondering if I’d have an excuse to isolate myself on my birthday on 14 June.
I’ve always been a loner. As an only child, I’ve loved my own company since I was little.
‘Why don’t you go and play outside?’ my mum would urge in the school holidays, desperate for me to spend time with other kids my age.
‘I’d rather stay here,’ I’d reply, preferring to do my own thing, like making up stories and reading books.
Denne historien er fra June 08, 2020-utgaven av WOMAN'S OWN.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent ? Logg på
Denne historien er fra June 08, 2020-utgaven av WOMAN'S OWN.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
'SEEING MY NAME ON TV IS SURREAL'
Loose Women newbie Olivia Attwood Dack on joining the hit show, marriage and career goals
THE MISSING PIECE
My earliest memory of my older sister Priya wasn’t one where she was present, but rather, the realisation of her absence.
WEEKNIGHT WINNERS
Rustle up these tasty family dinners with just five easy ingredients
SMILING THROUGH CANCER
Like most mums, when my kids are upset I’ll do almost anything to turn their frowns upside down, whether it’s making Max, 11, his favourite chocolate cake or putting on silly voices for Georgia, eight, when she’s had a bad day at school.
BRAVERY AMIDST SUCH HORROR
The Woman's Own columnist has her say on dinner time, posh grub and wet summers
RELAX & RESET
For farm-to-table food and a game-changing spa, head for the dramatic Dolomites
HELP! I'M TURNING INTO MY MUM
As the years pass, Heather Main, 39, realises she’s inheriting more and more of her mother’s traits
I WAS MISTAKEN FOR MY HUSBAND'S MISTRESS!
When Gemma Loveden, 38, lost l6st, a family member was convinced she was someone else...
Denise confesses I'MA MORNING SEX PERSON'
Never one to mince her words, Denise Welch is much-loved by fans for her refreshing honesty.
Cat & Ben SNUBBED!
Are the This Morning hosts feeling disgruntled after missing out on an NTA nomination in favour of Alison?
