Birthday memories: A pony, egg hunt and a snowstorm

“The secret to staying young is to live honestly, eat slowly, and lie about your age.” – Lucille Ball

Every year on my birthday, (which also happens to be April Fools’ Day) I’m always surprised at how quickly time has gone by. Even more so as I grow older.

I remember my sixth birthday where my parent’s rented a pony for my party (a bit much, no?), I remember an Easter egg hunt themed party, my sweet 16 party and a birthday that got a snowstorm in 1997. Too many memorable ones to count.

What I remember most though is, how as a kid, birthdays just made you feel so special. I felt different and giddy the whole day.

I still kind of get that now, but having kids has changed me. Everything I do in life I think of them first. Call it instinctual, but I no longer think of what I want. I probably should, because a lot of one thing isn’t always good, it’s just about finding a balance.

My balance for today was, I wanted to go out to lunch, but knew it had to be a place the kids enjoyed. It was the first time I went to a restaurant alone with my two munchkins, but it all went great. I decided we’d venture out when I picked my daughter up from preschool. It was such a last minute decision that I had left the house with no diaper bag. So, it was a huge risk! I was crossing my fingers that my one-year-old didn’t poop while we were there, or else I’d be up the creek without a paddle. Or, realistically, at Newport Creamery without a diaper!

As I sit here and type this, I think about how I’ve spent my other birthdays and the truth is, they’re special no matter what I’m doing. I’m glad to just be alive, healthy and able to spend time with those I care about. That trumps a party and a wrapped present any day.

This morning, my best friend, Danielle, texted me a slew of photos of her and I over the years. They made me smile, giggle and reflect on where I’ve been and where I hope to go.

It’s so comforting to know that I’ve had a best friend know me as a young child, through my teens and now through my adulthood. I think it’s really important to surround yourself with people who know where you came from.

I always say to my husband, “I wish we knew each other when we younger.” He says, “don’t worry, I’m sure you’ll tell that story at least 10 more times, so it’s like I was there.” Oh, he’s a funny one.

Either way, another year has gone by and I look forward to celebrating more. I’m also looking forward to making a wish for myself tonight as I blow out the candles on my fruit tart (I’m not a fan of cake!) Ah, the simple stuff.

Check out the below photos of my friend and I through the years! Ages range from 12 to 30-something. Gotta love the shiny skin and braces!

What do you love about birthdays?