A Sweet Surprise a Month Late

Birthdays have never been a big deal for me. I’m not the type to announce them on social media or gather people to celebrate. In fact, this year, I didn’t post anything at all—which explains why some friends didn’t know the date had passed. I honestly didn’t mind. Life moves fast, and we all get caught up with our own routines. Remembering or forgetting a birthday has never been a measure of friendship for me.

But then, about a month after my birthday, something unexpectedly sweet happened. One of my best colleagues from Manila messaged me out of the blue, asking—very casually—when my birthday was. I didn’t think much of it. I just told her, and she replied with a dramatic “Whaaat?!” followed by apologies for missing it. I immediately assured her it was totally fine. She didn’t owe me anything, and I truly meant that.

The next day, a delivery rider knocked at my door carrying a perfectly packed chocolate cake from White Box Bakeshop. I was honestly stunned. I didn’t expect it at all. The cake looked beautiful, almost too pretty to cut—smooth icing, simple design, and that signature White Box elegance. It felt like receiving a warm hug in the form of dessert.

As I took the first bite, I couldn’t help but smile. It wasn’t just about the cake. It was about the thought that crossed miles. It was about someone taking a moment out of their busy life to show kindness in such a tangible way. It reminded me of why I value low-key friendships so much. The quiet ones. The gentle, steady connections that don’t demand daily check-ins but still show up when it matters.

I’ve always believed friendships don’t need grand gestures or perfect timing. What matters is the intention, the sincerity, the subtle ways we remind each other that we’re here—still connected, still rooting for one another. That surprise cake was exactly that: a sweet reminder that even in the simplest moments, we are remembered. And sometimes, those belated celebrations turn out to be the most heartwarming ones.

That's it for today's blog. See you in my next one!

Sending some love and light

With love, Jane