Like all of us, Padma Lakshmi has had a year to remember. The Top Chef host has graced glamorous magazine covers, navigated homeschooling, and clapped back at criticism for not wearing a bra. But now, Padma has shared a few reflections on her life as she serenely celebrated her 50th birthday on the beach in a casual (albeit very cool) look. 

"This year has been a mix of misery and elation," Padma explained in her caption on September 1. In the photos, Padma walked along the beach in a stunning white bikini with a multi-colored ikat print with just a classic white button down shirt that doubled as a cover-up. 

Padma continued her "birthday thoughts" to express how grateful she is for all of her blessings, including "a loving and attentive partner, a child that continues to be a miracle every day and work that I am proud of and fully engaged by with people I love."

In the next pic, Padma practically twinned with her daughter as the whole family took a relaxing dip in the pool in coordinating, brightly hued, two-piece swimsuits.