2 Decades Down

I turned 20 yesterday, the baby of the group. A birthday is one of those things that can be exciting, but you kind of know what to expect. Nowadays, you expect people you don’t really know to wish you a happy birthday on Facebook. Cards from grandparents, aunts and uncles, parents, and friends. Stuff like that. It’s a different age, but you know the drill pretty well.

I didn’t know what it would be like in Solheimar. But when I woke up in the morning, I thought it was kind of strange that one of my roommates, McKayla, wasn’t in bed across from me. Usually the promise of coffee (after a series of alarms from both of us) drag us out of bed into the kitchen for breakfast. I walked into the kitchen to find a plate full of eggs and toast and yogurt (in a wine glass, no less) waiting for me that she snuck out of the room earlier to make. How many people can say they had someone they’ve known for only 2 weeks surprise them with breakfast on their birthday?

During morning meeting, it was announced to the community that it was my birthday. A different song was sung at the closing of the meeting, and before I knew it I was surrounded by people wanting to wish me a happy birthday (or something along those lines, I’m still trying to understand the majority of what they say). I think it was the most hugs and kisses I’ve ever gotten! Their love is so natural, just being around the home people can bring warmth to your heart, and having that attention directed at you can be an uplifting experience.

The best was yet to come. After being away from a guitar and a mandolin for only a few shorts weeks, and being told we had the opportunity to borrow one, I couldn’t contain myself. As soon as our meetings were over I jumped at the chance to grab it and start playing. I started out alone in our sunroom, then slowly I was joined by most of the group, one by one. Just coming in to read, sit on the computer and do whatever it is we do on computers, talk to each other, whatever. Sometimes they’d know a song and sing along, or request one. It was the best birthday present I could have imagined. Getting to finally play music, and then being joined by my housemates/classmates/new best friends and feeling fulfilled from both music and company. Playing guitar felt comfortable again, like finally letting go after holding your breath.

Usually, you’d have cake on your birthday. Or something like that. We had a rhubarb tart. How many other people can say they got a rhubarb tart for their birthday?

Since it was my mom’s birthday as well, at home I’m used to celebrating with her. Sharing a birthday is a lot more special than you’d think, especially when it’s with your mom. That part of the day will never change. But I’d have to say that turning 20 in Iceland was the best idea I’ve ever had.

-Nora Jackson

Thanks to this whole crew for an incredible day, and many the many more to come.  Thanks to Rosa for capturing this moment.