So yesterday I turned 31. I woke up slow and opened a box wrapped with satin ribbon to find a dress that fit me perfectly, carefully selected by my thoughtful husband. I got on the train to Malmo and on my way there passed through breath taking woodlands and picture perfect countryside.
I treated myself to a pedicure from a wonderful woman from Vietnam who has lived in Sweden for 20 years. She spoke beautiful Swedish to me with the patience of a saint. We spoke slowly in our second language about what it is like to be an immigrant in Sweden. We spoke about how hard it can be but mostly about all the reasons we loved the country and our experience as a whole. I walked out of that little salon feeling appreciated, understood and totally pampered.
We then met friends for dinner that treated me to great conversation and a bouquet of the pinkest peonies. When I arrived home late in the evening I had tons and tons of messages from family and friends wishing me "Happy Birthday!" from all over the world.
So this is what I know for sure at this point: My name is Natalie Hanna Soderbom. I am a full grown 31 year old women but most of all I am just thankful as hell. Because I am loved for who I am no matter where I am, my life is truly beautiful.
