Twenty Two

Twenty two. I can’t believe that time has flown so quickly. Just the other day I was writing up my post for my twenty-first birthday, where I spoke about the traditional way of life when it comes to celebration. You know, hiring out a hall, getting the key, eating those lekker pies and samoosas that your aunty made that could feed a nation, and lets not forget the daunting speech. Oh my goodness! The SPEECH! You won’t believe how awkward I was at my birthday ‘celebration’ last year when I was asked to say a few words (in front of like 10 people).

The past year has been incredible. That’s the only word that comes to mind that’s fitting. I’m amazed at how much I have grown over the year, not just emotionally, but in confidence too. I would say physically, but to be dead honest with you – I’ve shrunk. I am as short as I was when I was about 14 years old!

Growth

All jokes aside, I feel that I have grown so much over the past year. I have become a woman who stands up for what she firmly believes in without forcing my thoughts on others. I voice my opinion, whereas I know that previously, I was too shy or too nervous to even speak. Each year, as with every human being, we gain knowledge and experience but this year in particular I feel as though I have gained so much and have so much to be grateful for. The Lord has truly blessed me with a loving, supportive family; awesome group of friends; and an extremely supportive boyfriend. My team (yes, “Ms Paula Bee” consists of a team. I’m just the face!) has been incredible over the past year as they put in effort, time, and an amazing standard of work into what they do to produce what you see as my blog. Thank you so much! Lorenzo has dedicated so much of his time and effort into this brand that we’ve built, and I appreciate everything so much (this is starting to sound like a speech, no?).

If I can give anyone advice from what I have learned over the past year, I’d say this:
Never give up on your dreams, never stop believing in yourself and your passion, and always know your worth (especially in this industry).

By the way, this look is one of my faves! I love the laid-back feel of it, which is something I should do more of on the blog. Lisa and I were actually hiding away from creepers (you know, those men that whistle after you), and I think the photos actually came out amazing. My favourite piece in this look would be the denim shirt – it’s so comfortable and versatile!

Would you rock this look?

Jacket | Cotton On / Jeans | Forever 21 / Denim Shirt | Cotton On / Sneakers | Cotton On / Glasses | Rayban

Photographer: Lisa Gabriel