• Purposeful Parenthood

    Birthday Rituals: What we still do

    birthday rituals

    It has been so fascinating to watch how our children interact with birthday rituals over the years. At 10 years old, Henry is in such a sweet spot! (Thanks to this approach to parenting, our relationship has been much, much stronger.)

    A couple days before his birthday, I told him I would be hanging his birthday banner and pictures soon. He asked, “Why haven’t you done it already?” I clarified, “Are you wishing they were already up?” He then responded with an emphatic yes. It was so heart-warming.

    Then, a day before his birthday, he asked, “Can we light my candle now?”

    So we all gathered around the table. … Read More

  • Good Times

    Camping Birthday Party: Reducing COVID Risks

    camping birthday party

    Well, we are celebrating our final birthday during COVID! Tate’s birthday was first (outdoor movie in our cul-de-sac). Then Matt’s. Then mine. Now we are finally at Henry’s birthday. Last year, his slumber party birthday was pretty much right before the lockdown. This year, we are opting for a camping birthday party.

    The infectious disease expert that we consult with for the school continues to say that the COVID transmission risk is low in an outdoor setting. Therefore, camping seems like an okay option. Thank goodness for [normally] mild temperature in Austin! Saturday looks like it will be about 64 degrees, and Sunday looks to be about 73 degrees. However, … Read More

  • Good Times

    Celebrating Your Own Birthday: Brainstorming Ideas

    How do you feel about celebrating your own birthday? I know it can seem self-centered and egotistical. But, personally, I err on the side of believing that if you want something in life, you should make it happen for yourself.

    I love celebrating birthdays—my own and others. I did much more of it before I had children. My favorite birthday party ever was my Be the Change Scavenger Hunt. I even had team t-shirts printed! We drove all around Houston doing random acts of kindness for strangers. And I somehow found two live bands willing to come share their talents at the party. And there was a commemorative CD. My … Read More