My 40th Birthday Celebration
I actually didn’t plan anything fancy for my 40th birthday, but my cousin Abegail encouraged me. So I thought, why not?
I wanted it to be simple—just a celebration with family and friends.
So on March 1st, I turned 40. We spent the day at the beach together, just enjoying each other’s company.
And the next day, I had dinner with the ladies in my life.
Simple, meaningful, and honestly, exactly how I wanted it.
Birthday Invitations
Though It’s not a grand party, I still made my digital invitations.

I made this invitation for our beach celebration. And yes, that “forty” on the side is my handwriting. Just so you know. HAHA 😆
And this invitation was for the ladies’ dinner the next day.
If I were to throw a grand party, I would love a sage green, black, and white theme. So I used that idea for my invitation.
Beach Day Fun
So, let’s dive into the beach party.
It was simple—after church service, we went straight to Surfside Beach. We love this spot because there are shaded areas from the trees, and it’s also great for the kids so they don’t get sunburned too quickly.
But because we had too much fun… they still got sunburned anyway. Oops, sorry 😄
Real Friends, Real Blessings
I don’t have a lot of friends at this stage in my life, but I am always grateful because even if they are few, they are real ones.
They are the kind of people who believe in you and genuinely want to see you win in life. Most especially, they are the ones who help you grow in your faith.
We don’t talk every day, but whenever we see each other, we’re the kind of friends who lose track of time.
And for that, I am forever grateful. Truly.
Family Love
As per my family, my cousins are always supportive and won’t miss celebrations. I love that about them. They make sure they are present even though they are also busy in life. My father couldn’t make it becaue of work schedule. but it’s fine. I reached this mature age not to be a dramatic princess. I understand. HAHA
Princess Moments
Here are the princess poses, acting like I’m not a 40-year-old lady. HAHA
Ladies-Only Dinner
So the next day, I planned a ladies-only dinner at Surfside Beach Bar & Restaurant. I was glad we got a good spot—it felt like it was really meant for us.
These are the ladies I am truly grateful for, especially living here in Aruba. Being far from home in the Philippines, they make it easier to feel at home here on the island.
I’ve been on the island for 13 years now, and I honestly couldn’t have reached this point in my life without them being part of my journey.
Good Food, Good Company
Good food, good company, and even better memories.
Dinner at Surfside Beach Bar & Restaurant was simple, but everything felt just right. We enjoyed the food while sharing laughter and stories together.
Cake
I ordered this cake from Emmy Loves Cake Boutique.
40 and Fabulous
Also, one of my dear friends, Cherie, made this “40” filled with my photos. She’s so sweet! She’s truly one of my answered prayers here in Aruba. Such a special friend—and honestly, they all are.
I couldn’t thank God enough for them.
Personalized Notepads
I also prepared a simple favor for them. I make personalized notepads, so I thought it would be a nice little gift to give them.
My Appreciation Card
I insert an appreciation card for them.
That’s a Wrap
It was a simple celebration, but my heart is full.
I am grateful for family, friends, and all the people who make life in Aruba feel like home.
And maybe this is what turning 40 really means—not a grand celebration, but appreciating the people and moments you already have.
And that’s how I celebrated my 40th birthday—simple, meaningful, and full of gratitude. 🙂
Love, Princess
Read my Life Lessons at 40
Hi, I’m Princess Leah.
I’m a working mom of two, doing life with my husband and family while trying to move through it all with faith, honesty, and intention. I write about real-life moments, quiet struggles, and the kind of encouragement we often need but don’t always say out loud. This space is for anyone learning to keep going, even when life feels heavy.