Yesterday was my birthday, but is the celebration over? Of course, it’s not! We are only just beginning! Eric’s birthday is October 2nd; so, we have at least another month to celebrate my birthday before we switch over to his. ~smile~ And after his birthday, comes Thanksgiving! We celebrate the beginning of August until New Years!
Years ago, I shared an office with a special lady who was born on October 1st, and she declared October to be her birthday month. I loved that! Why should we set aside one day to appreciate life when we can take a month to party?!
It always makes me a little sad when I wish someone a happy birthday and hear in return, “It is just another day.” No, it is not! Your birthday is special because you are special!
Dinner, Movie, Beach
Most years, my birthday comes just before a beach trip. Thank you, Mom and Dad, for having me in the summer. You inherently knew I would love the beach! And, thank you for having me the same week my future best friend turned one. Because of this, we have enjoyed twenty years of dual birthday celebrations!
Each birthday, I can expect a yummy dinner and a movie of my choice – my choice usually being a red-box flick at home in my pajamas. From there, I celebrate with friends at random times and then head to North Carolina for a celebration with my hometown people! I may not be a fan of large groups, but I will happily celebrate repeatedly with several small groups! Sometimes, it pays to be an introvert. ~smile~
My Favorite Birthday Month
My favorite birthday month to date was four years ago when I turned thirty. My sweet sister-in-law turned forty that same month, and our mother-in-law and father-in-law came to visit for several weeks. The festivities began with a surprise party for her; and, from there, we spent the month hanging out, eating out, spending time together, and getting all the partying out of our system. Of course, to us, partying means watching TV and eating junk food.
Not only was it fun celebrating all that time, but it was great sharing the festivities with someone I loved. Why celebrate one birthday when you can celebrate two?!
Make Birthdays a Season
When Eric and I were dating, he said he wanted to make birthdays a big deal in our house once we were married. Some years, we have lived up to his request; whereas, other years we have settled for a small remembrance. However, we both prefer our birthdays to linger. Eric often takes a few days off around his birthday so we can celebrate for a long weekend. In fact, he says that I overdo it with the festivities sometimes. That is always nice to hear since I worry he will not feel special enough.
After the short and sweet birthday celebrations, there is typically a sense of sadness that it is over. So, why let it be over?
When you are settling into your newlywed normal, think about how you want to celebrate birthdays in your new home. Some couples genuinely prefer to keep celebrations to a minimum, and that is okay if both people agree. However, if you enjoy being doted on, if you like having cake for breakfast, and if you prefer life to be a little more exciting once in a while, consider adopting the birthday season approach. You can enjoy your actual birthday while knowing the celebration is far from over.
Celebrating for a straight month may be hard on your schedule and your wallet, but why not a week? You do not have to spend a lot. All that is required is for the birthday boy or girl to be the center of attention for a while. This would include his or her favorite foods, activities, and maybe some extra pampering.
Eric and I have enjoyed several birthdays together, and we both prefer birthday seasons to celebrating for just one day. It keeps excitement in the air and frees us from the sad feeling that follows Christmas, Thanksgiving, and any other celebration that comes to an abrupt ending.
How do you feel about the concept of prolonged birthday celebrations? You could do the same with anniversaries! Life is serious most of the time. Prolonging special moments keeps the world from feeling too heavy. There is always something to celebrate!
What is your favorite birthday memory?
Picture: iStockPhoto/Oleg_0