It’s the day of my 21st birthday and I received something in the mail I DID NOT EXPECT. It was a an old looking map and had no info on who sent this. I laughed because I thought it was a mistake or a joke, but as I looked closely it said my party was in a certain spot. I went to get my phone because it’s the 21st century and maps on my phone is WAY more useful to me. But it wasn’t in my room, and it wasn’t in the bathroom or the kitchen. It was gone!

The back of the map just said, “Good luck, no cheating!” “Ughhh!” I said irritated. I didn’t want to figure this thing of the past in order to celebrate me. “What a dumb idea! Whoever’s plan was this is going to get slapped,” I thought to myself.

I sighed as I grabbed my purse and shoes and headed out for the door with this crusty brown map. Streets were labeled but the “x” didn’t say what building it’s in. Guess we’ll have to figure it out!

I walk in this ridiculously warm day as the sun is blazing on me and feel all alone. I realized about ten minutes in, that I feel like I went the wrong direction. And I did!

I get extremely frustrated with myself and start complaining about everything until I give myself a self-talk. I remind myself that it’s my freaking 21st birthday and I need to enjoy this day even the dull parts.

I start walking a little taller, and looking around at the trees around me. I admire the birds flying above me and even the bees buzzing near a bush by me, while also trying to make sure I don’t miss my turn.

A whiff of barbecue food smacks me in the face and my mouth starts watering. By now, the aroma of all my favorite foods becomes my guide. I follow where the food is and it takes me to a restaurant. I try to scope it out to see if there’s anyone I know and if I’m supposed to be there. Turns out, I’m not! It’s someone’s graduation party and I awkwardly made eye contact with the graduate’s dad.

I turn and see that I can’t be too far off. I walk another block to see a carnival at a park. I see one person I know looking suspicious because they were supposed to be hiding like the rest of my friends and family. They all come out of hiding and yell, “Surprise!”

I’m caught off guard but am SO HAPPY to see them and to finally toss out that map! I later find out it was my brother who took my phone and made this map because he knew I love escape room type games.

I punch him but sit thankful for the people who put in effort today to make me feel special. Even if I am directionally challenged.