Growing up, I truly felt like my birthday was the most special day of the year. Cheers to my mom, for it's not an easy feat when your child's birthday comes between Christmas and New Years. Yet, for me, my mom managed to make the 30th of December the absolute best day of every year. And cheers to the mothers of my friends, who happily sent their kids for sleepovers, pizza and scary movies at my house year after year from Kindergarten through high school.
Yesterday, I told my husband that all I wanted today was to sleep in and then later in the day, of course, have champagne and chocolate birthday cake. He agreed, but I secretly doubted the sleeping in part. The Boy is always up early and that means so am I. For the past 7 years, my birthday has been spent taking care of my children, instead of myself, like it used to be.
Yet, today, I find myself surprised and enlightened.
I did get to sleep in - until 10am! That's when The Boy came in to show me he had dressed himself and to tell me that it was almost time for the party! I took my time showering and getting ready. When I came downstairs, with prior approval from my husband and to the sounds of my children rushing about, my wonderful family shouted out, "Happy Birthday!"
The girls had made a "Happy Birthday!" poster, gifts of felt hearts, string and bead necklaces and pipe cleaner rings. Coffee service was set up alongside my favorite biscuits and the smiles of my children lit the room brighter than candles.
Later this afternoon, we'll head out for dinner at a pub and come home to Champagne and chocolate cake. My heart is full as I realize the beautiful truth - Today isn't all about me anymore, it's about my children celebrating me.
That's better than anything in the world.
Happy Birthday!
