I celebrated my 22nd birthday last week and let me tell you, it was weird. I didn’t dress up like a hipster, or make fun of my exes, and I definitely still don’t feel “22.” The same night 365 days ago could not have been more different. When you turn 21, you have this feeling of elation and freedom. Although you may be the youngest one at the bar, you feel like a champion; like your whole life has been building up to this moment. You don’t pay for a single drink, you rip shots without a second thought, and you continue to go out every day of the week because it’s your f*cking birthday. Turning 22 is a bit different…
The night of your birthday
21
You strut into the bar like you own the place, ready for all of the shots.
22
You might go out on the night of your birthday ... might ... But really all you want to do is curl up on your couch with a bottle of wine and cry about life.
Your birthday attire
21
You bought a short, tight black dress that looks FAB on you, ready for ALL the attention.
22
IF you even go out, you might just roll in whatever grungy sweats you had on that day. You no longer care about your appearance, because you're a mature 22-year-old ... and you're lazy.
Presenting your ID for the first time
21
You can't wait. You have been practicing for months. And you NAIL IT.
22
You're low-key offended each time someone asks to see your identification. Pah-lease.
Birthday Gifts
21
ALL of your gifts are alcohol-themed, and you love it.
22
Now your family gets you things like pans, and maybe a blender if you're lucky. Because they figure you need adult things now...
Your taste in alcohol
21
Anything. Literally give me anything and I will down it.
22
You're pickier now. You know what happens when you have too much tequila. You'd rather be classy and sip on good drinks.
But don't fear. You are one year older, one year wiser. Enjoy the fact that you are, and hope that 23 will be easier...
