Today is my birthday. It’s a strange old situation to be celebrating. In my previous thirty plus years I’ve never experienced an isolated birthday. There will be loads of us in this same position over the coming weeks and months. How exactly can you celebrate a birthday in lockdown?
What I’d Usually Be Doing
I’m not a huge one for celebrations, in all honesty, I probably wouldn’t see anyone on my birthday. Not only because it’s a Monday, but I don’t really like being the centre of attention. I’d likely Facetime my sister in Australia, get a call from my parents, hear from my mates. We might get local friends and family round for a slice of cake. Then there’s the Facebook messages from folk around the globe. We’d usually go out for a family meal or a day out, like the zoo or the beach, including fish and chips, even if it’s the weekend before or after the birthday. My wife and kids would make a fuss in the morning and bring me a brew and some toast in bed – even though I hate crumbs in the sheets! It would be a lovely day spending time with loved ones. But what’s this year got in store? What is my birthday in lockdown looking like?
What I’m Doing This Year
On Saturday we ordered in. Dominos, which the kids love. It’s a huge treat, one that we usually only do via collection on their £1.99 personal pizza deal. We got a leaflet through the post a while ago and I chucked it in a drawer. It had a 50% off discount code which brought the cost down to reasonable, instead of ridiculous. We put a film on and munched out way through. They also set up a zoo for me in the garden. Inflatable animals around the shrubs, them dressed in their animal onesies, even a themed cafe! Today they woke me up bright and early with breakfast, cards and gifts. I’m blessed! The rest of the day I’ll be working and they’re getting back to a bit of homeschooling after an Easter break. However, will finish early and we’ll spend some time together before bed. I expect to hear from family and friends – I had an e-gift of a 2 month Now TV voucher sent to me from my best mate yesterday. It’s a strange time but moments of normality are great between the chaos of news reports. That’s my birthday in lockdown.
Other Ideas Of How To Celebrate
If you can, take the day of. I’m working my metaphorical behind off at the moment to try and claw in some money due to lack of finances because of the global situation. As the kids are busy anyway, I’m happy to stick a film on my laptop and work on my desktop, as to not get too far behind for the rest of the week. Give yourself some time. I had an extra few minutes in the shower this morning, listening to music on my new speaker and waking up to the world slowly. Maybe you give yourself a little pamper session. Or simply dress up for the day, even if you’re not going out.
If you’re living with a loved one who is having a birthday, think outside the box. Maybe you can’t get hold of the gifts you’d usually buy for a loved one. Why not do something different? Get a local company to deliver. Garden centres are taking orders so you could have some plants for your garden? Sweet shops are taking orders so you can maybe enjoy your favourite candy? Cake shops are taking orders too! Self explanatory that one!
Enjoy some great food, whether you cook it yourself or order in. Hook up with your group of friends on Zoom. A party can still happen, even over the WiFi! Get some drinks poured, play some music, have a quiz, even plan themed fancy dress! If you’re friend is having a birthday and you’re planning on video calling them, why not send them a gift box of birthday in lockdown supplies. Ideas of what to send include their favourite tipple, a birthday cupcake with candles and a stupid costume. There are loads of ways to enjoy a birthday celebration, even in isolation.
Check out these lockdown birthday ideas.
My Best Gift?
I love all the presents I’ve received this year. But what’s my favourite gift of birthday in lockdown? In this global crisis, my best gift is being with my loved ones, hearing from people I care about and being healthy. It’s an eye opening world at the moment and the air in my lungs, the beat of my heart and the ability to look up at the blue skies, is that little bit more special. Take care of yourselves, be kind to others and stay safe.
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