How to have your Best Birthday Ever!

When I was a child, birthdays were magical!  It didn't matter if it was mine or my friends, it was exciting! There was a party where we played games, a money cake (coins were cleaned, wrapped in tinfoil and baked into the cake) and presents. Getting older was so exciting.

I'm not exactly sure at around what age my excitement changed to dread but I found myself struggling each year my birthday came around. In a cultural that celebrates youth, every birthday takes us farther away from it. I have talked to people who try to ignore their birthday and treat it as just another day. 

Here's some ideas that have helped me look forward to my birthdays now.

• I thank my Father in Heaven for another year to live on this earth with my family and friends.
• Counting blessings, naming them one by one. I write them down, share them on social media or with those I love.
• My dear friend, Lori decided to do an act of service on her birthday to demonstrate her gratitude for her blessings.
• If I want to do a specific activity on my birthday, I plan it or tell my family about it. 
• If I want a specific gift, I tell my family. *Win-Win*

On getting older, I've come to an age where I am feeling quite content as the candle count increases. I'm grateful for the youth I had, the lessons I've learned and I'm excited for the adventures ahead. I wouldn't want to go backwards when there is so much to look forward to.