Gratitude for the Girl She’s Becoming, and the Woman I Am

My beautiful Khushi turned 21 today… my heart can barely hold it. It feels like just yesterday I held those tiny hands, watched those first wobbly steps, and listened to her curious little questions about life. And now, here she is – this strong, beautiful, wise young woman, walking through the world with so much grace, resilience, and compassion.

We started the day with a proper adventure – the Aerial Adventure Park, high ropes, zip lines – obviously, we took the most challenging route (would you expect anything less from the two of us?). And let me tell you, my body was tested – every joint, every muscle – but the more I pushed through, the stronger I felt. It left me with so much gratitude for this body of mine. It’s not perfect, but goodness, look at what it carries me through.

Later, we softened the day with afternoon tea at an Italian restaurant. The cakes? Absolutely divine – sweet, soft, a little indulgence to mark the day. After we parted ways – her off to celebrate with her friends, me off to wander solo – I made my way to Westminster, my happy place, and walked along Queen’s Walk, towards St Paul’s Cathedral.

It’s funny – as I sat on a bench in the church gardens, this quiet thought landed: I’m not in a rush for the life I dream of anymore.

The love I’ve prayed for, the business that flows with ease, the simple, aligned life I crave – I trust those things will find me, in their own time. I’m letting go of the pressure to have it all figured out right now. Choosing to lean into the slower rhythm. To savour mornings with a proper cup of tea. To soak in the beauty around me, without racing to the next thing.

I don’t feel the need to dress to impress anymore. My face, with every line, every wrinkle, tells a story I wouldn’t rewrite. It feels like I’ve finally arrived at a season of life where the drama has no place, and acceptance is my daily practice. What a blessing to be here, after the years that tested me.

That said… my body? She’s not too happy with me today. By the end of it, the exhaustion kicked in hard, my legs and hips were done, and the inflammation flared up – agony if I’m honest. But I’ve promised her that tomorrow we’ll rest. We’ll slow down again. We’ll honour both the strength and the softness.

So here’s to today – to my daughter growing into her own, and to me, still growing into mine.

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