Birthday Traditions

Today we are celebrating one of my son's 7th birthday! Seven is a sweet age with one of the perks being that you know exactly what you expect for your birthday. We parents find out weeks in advance what is most important according to the birthday boy.

As I listened to what this child wanted, he talked about the sweet birthday traditions that have creeped into the family over the years. He likes that his dad decorates the family and dining room with birthday streamers and balloons the night before so that when he wakes up, he is "...surprised because I'm still sleepy and haven't remembered that it is my birthday yet...then I remember!" He likes the poster board that dad decorates with birthday greetings, stickers, and stick people and animals all singing the birthday boy's praises. He likes that he gets to pick out his dinner (French toast made by his grandfather this year,) and his cake (Carvel ice cream cake.) He likes using the "THIS IS YOUR SPECIAL DAY" plate. He especially likes when we go around the table during dinner and share ALL the things we like about him. Of course he can't wait to open his gifts, many sent from across the country. Finally, he likes to hear his birth story. He is very proud that HIS was my easiest birth.

My husband and I never set out to make sweet birthday traditions. Fortunately for us, they happened. Our day started with Mass and our family will give the birthday boy a final special birthday blessing before he goes to bed. When all is quiet, his Dad and I will spend a few minutes together before the Lord, thanking Him for this most precious child.