What Makes a Birthday Special to You?
When you think back over your birthdays, which ones stand out the most? Did you do something grand like scuba or sky diving? Or was it the little things others did for you that stood out?
I think back to my childhood birthdays and it’s not necessarily the gifts I remember, but the people I celebrated with and the food. Figures. Before I ventured into my teens, my mom would cook my favorite dish and cake, which would be cashew chicken and German chocolate cake. Yum! My mouth is watering already. As for the people, it was generally just my family and a few friends.
This year we decided to keep birthdays low key and be creative. I couldn’t have been more thrilled with my iced vanilla coffee from Wendy’s and fresh cut flowers my husband brought me, however it was the birthday cards that brought tears to my eyes:
Like most entrepreneurs, I put in many long hours and at times feel like folding in the towel, but my husband continually supports and encourages me to follow through. This is reflective in his pick for my birthday card “You Can Do It”.
My daughter, who I know will some day be a famous author, picked up somewhere how to make these cool 8-page booklets from one sheet of paper and made this cute card filled with quotes like:
The most wasted of days is one without laughter. E.E. Cummings
And my son, he is the artist and poet:
Yep, didn’t have a dry eye after these and there is no doubt about it, I’m one blessed mom to have such a wonderful family. Oh and I have no idea where this angel theme came from with the kids. 
Of course, I also took advantage of some birthday freebies like my free creation at Cold Stone Creamery, a gourmet burger at an Islands Restaurant and a free car wash at Danny’s.
So I ask again, what makes a birthday special to you? Please share!
To find local businesses offering birthday discounts & freebies for adults, kids and pets, visit my website, Free Birthday Treats.
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Wow, now I am crying. I can’t wait for my son to be able to make me homemade cards. I think just being with family and getting a “day off” from work, housework, etc makes a bday special. Of course a nice meal or special event doesn’t hurt either but it is just feeling the love from family and knowing I am appreciated that make it wonderful.
I love my birthday. I don’t keep track of how old I am – you are as old as you feel, my philosophy. What I enjoy most about my birthday is getting phone calls from all of my immediate family. They know I count on it on my special day. They joke that I keep track of each person and mark them off “my list”. Thanks for making me smile today!
Kittys last blog post..Penn Station Match a Smiley Instant Win Game
What a sweet card from your daughter – too cute!
What makes birthdays special to me? Hearing from friends. Knowing they’re thinking of me. Nice emails, sweet sentiments in cards, thoughtful gifts from my girlfriends. And feeling special all day long – because I have such great friends.
Thanks Julie!
Debba
http://www.girlfriendology.com
What a great post! Sounds like you have such sweet kids and a very supportive husband. Aren’t these cards and homemade treats the best gifts EVER? I have to say, the most special birthday/mother’s day/special occasion gifts are the homemade things that my kids give me. They are the items that my husband or kids put so much thought into. For my last birthday, my fifteen year old son went to Wal-Mart and bought me -with his own money- a basket filled with candles and lotion. One of the lotions was even anti-stress lavender lotion. It was so sweet. I ended up getting an iPod and several other expensive items but the gift from my son was the best! It is one I will always remember. Great post!
I’m weeping….how cute!!!
Those are the sweetest cards in the world. Thanks for sharing! I love how much kids teach us about thoughtfulness, everyday. They know how to make your day and always seem to know just when you need a pick up. Kudos to your husband too!!
Julie,
Wow!! It is hard not to cry. These are so sweet and forever will be remembered. I love just being able to spend time with my husband, Kevin and my K’s. Kyle is 16, Korey is 14 and my daughter Kacy is 12 years old. They always give me a great card with a special message from them. Those will always be treasured and I am so blessed. I tear up just thinking of how blessed I am and appreciate the love. May your children always bring a smile to your face and joy to your heart!!
Sharon
Aww! Those are so sweet. Some days I feel like I’m not a good enough mom and I go back and read those cards and it picks me right up. Go Julie Angel! Our birthday rule at our house is…birthday person does NO chores and gets to pick their favorite dinner. EVERYONE loves this, especially me!!
For me, I don’t need expensive presents…I just want my loved ones to make me feel special with a thoughtful gesture or gift. I love the card your sone gave you.