My birthday was last week.
I spent it at home.
In true time honored tradition, I flew to my hometown to see my dad, little sister, grandparents and aunt and uncle to have my cake and eat it too.
It wasn’t your typical shots-at-the-bar fiesta (that came later).
Instead, I asked for a birthday party.
Maybe I was in a reminiscent mood. Maybe I wanted to celebrate in a grandparent-friendly establishment. Maybe I had my kick-ass 10th rollerblading birthday at U.S. Blades on my mind or the one that followed when my parents rented out an entire ice arena and I made my friends skate with me (watch me skate).
I wanted cake. I wanted to wear a dress. I wanted balloons. I wanted toasts.
I wanted my home-based family around a table.
My dad made reservations at our favorite Russian restaurant (the only food grandpa said he would eat). My grandma took me shopping to purchase a new birthday dress. My little sister spent the morning picking out her most appropriate soon-to-be-a-teen ensemble (sweatpants and over-sized shirt).
The day was everything I hoped it would be.
It was nothing fancy or extreme. But it was special.
Dad pre-ordered all of my favorite Russian dishes. Each family member took a turn at a toast. We took pictures. We laughed. We reminisced. We ate cake.
I felt blessed to be celebrating quietly (loudly) with my family (possible sign of oncoming maturity).
Absolutely Awesome.
Happy belated!
Thank you!!!
Sounds like the perfect birthday indeed. I love the image of you going shopping for a new birthday dress with your grandma…an awesome, moving post:-) May the year ahead bring more and more awesomeness!
Thank you so much!! I love shopping with grandma. It’s become our thing to do when I’m home. Makes for pretty great comments when people ask me where I get my clothes…”my grandma bought it” hehe. I really appreciate the good wishes. I’m optimistic about this year! Thank you again 🙂
I love times like this. Happy birthday.
Thank you! it’s been a good birthday I’d say.