Ever since my hubby and I got married (back in 1998) we have for whatever reason (most likely because we worked late most evenings before the kids came) would go to Benihana's for my birthday (dinner). We started this back when we lived in Northern California and the Benihana's was down the street from our home. It was 'convenient', open late, and easy to get into and fun as well (interactive & my hubby is very social.) So yesterday was my birthday (lets just say thirty-something - something but not quite yet 40) and we were planning to go with the family to Benihana's (now we have a 3 year old and 3 month old.) I called (as something told me 'call the restaurant') and come to find out they were closed (out of all days in the entire year...they happen to be closed on my bday...something about maintenance.) Anyhow...it was the first time in years we did not go to our 'traditional' birthday celebration place for dinner (going on 10 years we have celebrated there.) We figured out a new place to eat... close to our home and went there. However, it felt a bit odd (as I save the photo they take of you each year on your bday at Benihana's and last year my son enjoyed it.) Well, it got me thinking "do others have birthday traditions" like say going to the spa or out to lunch with a best friend or taking the kids for ice cream on your birthday?? Do any of you have family 'traditions' you made up for your birthday, if so what are they? I know I am not the only one with this 'made up' tradition.
LisaMommy is a discussion leader in Paradise Valley/Scottsdale area for arizonamoms.com. Her two boys are ages 5 months and 3 years old.
I ate off the "Happy B-day"
I ate off the "Happy B-day" plate tonight for my special day. We have one plate that whoever the honoree is, gets to use that night - whether for a meal at home, for cake after dinner out (we've done Benihana's before too...fun, with and without the kids!) or even lunch.
Happy Birthday to you too!! :)
Happy2BMommy, is a stay-at-home mom who just turned 40 (argh!) with a 6 yr. old daughter and a 4 yr. old son, and is a discussion leader for arizonamoms.com living in Scottsdale.
Every year on my birthday I
Every year on my birthday I write a letter to my kids about the last year of our lives. I know that seems silly to do on my birthday but for a long time I was a single mom and my kids were my reason to get up, work hard and make a success out of my life. I feel there is no better day than my birthday to remind them they are my everythings!
"It's not to late to become who you've always wanted to be..."
Every year, our kids choose
Every year, our kids choose where they want to have their birthday dinner. We always go out on their actual birthday so they feel special on their day. So far this year, we have been to Applebee's and Coco's.
This all started when our oldest son was turning 3 (he's now 10) and he asked to go to a restaurant for his borthday. Its been a tradition ever since.
Its funny to see where each child is going to pick to go. The younger years we were at McDonalds and Burger King, we have even done Peter Piper ("just for the pizza") Now, they learned all to quickly about getting a free sundae with your meals at most restaurants, so they choose those types of places now. Too funny!
I have a special journal
I have a special journal that I bought when my son was born. I wrote a letter to him that night(or morning since he was born at 2:48am) and then again for his 1st and 2nd birthday. The letter details the last year highlighting some special moments and how his life has impacted mine. He will probably think it is corny until he has his own kids! We also celebrate his birthday with just the 3 of us on the day and have the party later to share with friends and family.