I turned 28 today. I didn’t blow out my own candle. We didn’t make it through the birthday song. My defrosted leftover cake from Valentine’s Day left a lot to be desired…. And I unashamedly admit that the cake was my breakfast! Thus is my experience of birthdays as a mum!
Birthdays gone by
My birthday has always been a big deal for me. I love traditions and celebrations. I would claim the day, the weekend, and the entire week as my own!
Up until a few years ago, my birthday tradition was to take the day off work and spend it at the Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs. I’d enjoy a day of pure luxury, reflection and restoration, whilst bathing in the hot pools. It seems highly indulgent to think of now. But it was good for me to do at the time, and one day I hope to reclaim the tradition!
Birthdays in the thick of motherhood
For now, four years on – with three kids, three and under – life looks quite different.
There has been zero preparation for my birthday this year; I hardly gave it a moment’s thought until today. My husband asked me what I wanted this morning, and I said for the house to be cleaned. So if there was any doubt in my mind as to my current state of life, that statement certainly solidified it for me!
With a six week old, a two year old, and a three year old, it really is survival of the fittest at the moment. It feels that by the time everyone is cleaned, dressed, and fed it’s time to do it all over again!
Life is certainly not ‘all about me’ anymore! Motherhood quickly banishes that. I’m sure every mother has this experience and learns this lesson, as I have now. Where special days cease to be their own and the needs of everyone else around her prevail.
Interestingly, despite the day not entirely being centred around me, 28 is my best birthday yet. I’m aware today, more than any previous birthday, how profoundly blessed I am.
I have my loving husband, three beautiful little kids, my home, the gift of my faith, my friends and my community.
The gift of life
But most of all, on this very special day – the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus – I see how Jesus’ love and mercy abounds for me in my life.
Not because it is a life void of struggle; but because with Jesus, I have a hope and a joy that surpasses anything of this world. Jesus died for me. He loves me. He forgives me. And He chose me. What could give me greater joy?
So no, I won’t be bathing in any hot ‘spring’ pools today. If there’s ‘bathing’ of any kind, it will probably be shared with one or more children and a plastic turtle toy.
But today my two year old little boy – who has my eyes – blew out my birthday candle with a squeal of delight. I had a very in depth conversation by whisper with my three year old little girl. And as I write this, my six week old newborn is napping on me, and I can feel his little breath on my neck.
Wow! Thank you Lord for the gift of my life, the lives of my loved ones around me, and for the lives that I have borne. A very happy birthday indeed.
Beck is a wife and mother based in Albury, NSW. She is a Catholic convert with a heart for women, making traditions, and living community life. Beck loves organising, flowers, brunch and beautiful spaces. Beck is the Co-Founder of Litany of the Home, and the proud owner of way too many baskets.
2 Responses
Absolutely beautiful reflection.
Thank you for writing and sharing these delicate, touching moments between you and your children, Beck. A blessed life indeed.
Thank you Jemimah for your generous comment! Grateful for your support and kindness Xx