Running a small business is chaos. Finding time for myself? Impossible. Friends and family? Neglected. When I finally achieved that elusive work-life balance, I celebrated by opening a shop! (Because umm that's tooootally not going to torpedo my social life right?!)

Anyway, amidst the brand new set of challenges at Anges, my social life, predictably, took a back seat. I skipped friends' weddings and family gatherings for Durga Puja and Diwali, and hit a low point when I failed to make an effort for my husband's 30th birthday - a milestone that deserves celebration, whether with a massive party or a small birthday cake.

WHY did I not at least make a cake for my main guy on his birthday when I make them everyday for literal strangers!? I should sack myself from my own bakery.

The significance of birthdays hit me like a ton of bricks leading up to June 8th. Why is this date relevant? Well, not only is it "National Best Friends Day," it's also my best friend's birthday.

Nina - my first ever friend I made in the UK and uni housemate. Nina was a human firework - always fizzing with energy, throwing Pimms-fuelled picnics, and getting tangled in Twister games while wearing the least practical clothing. And she'd have cake. Maybe a dodgy home-bake, maybe a caterpillar cake, but there always was some type of cake going.

Cake was non-negotiable. Pigging out in a park? Our tradition. We did that a lot.

Nina's untimely passing cast a dark shadow, and even with time, the pain lingers. I miss sharing things with her, having my friend to laugh, cry and just be with. I'm sad she's not here to witness Anges' growth, and I miss her birthday parties.

In her memory, we chipped in for a park bench. At first, the bench felt empty. A place that should have had Nina but didn’t. But over the years, it became a ritual - one where cupcakes and tea turned into whispered conversations with a friend I wished was still there. 

I realise how privileged I am to have known her and to have such wonderful memories. Each birthday is an opportunity to celebrate, big or small. We don't have many days to mark milestones, so every birthday should be a big deal. We don't have many days when we can eat half a cake without feeling excessive! So, at the very least, everyone should have a birthday cake, and I'll be getting an awesome one for my love's next birthday, no matter how busy I am. I already know he likes this one! Is that forward-thinking or what!? *pats herself on the back*

Maybe it was this post. Maybe it was the cupcakes. Maybe it was Charlie Puth ambushing me with 'See You Again.' Either way, I’m a mess. The floodgates are open now!

I hope this post inspires you, even in the tiniest ways, for your next birthday celebration.

Lots of love,

Reshmi xoxo

ps: Life’s too short to skip cake. Celebrate. Eat the cake. Get the cake. (We can even make it for you - zero effort required.)