My 30th Birthday During Quarantine

I have always really enjoyed planning and throwing events. It could be for a birthday, holiday, milestone, or just because. But, I prefer to celebrate others so I can be behind the scenes helping everyone else have a good time.

This year I figured I would do something different. I was going to plan a 30th birthday party. After months of seeing friends at a far distance, I was hoping summer would bring some relief and we would be able to be a bit more social. I would use my birthday as a way to celebrate reuniting!

As days flew by, it was clear, we were not going to be able to gather together. Instead, I started to focus on the blessing of having technology. When the day came, I took the one-on-one phone calls and video chats to heart. After, Cody and I took a stroll through the park. Kindly, he took a few pictures of me, just to acknowledge this milestone.

When I got home I noticed all of the decorations (we left through the back)! Cody had spent the night before putting up balloons and signs. All while I took on the adventurous task of baking my first home made gluten free red velvet cake (until 1am!) he was working on this perfect day.

Little to my knowledge, he and a very dear friend, Stacey, had spread the word about a drive by party. Over the next three hours, friends and doggies came with signs, cards, and songs. I know that they kept this super small because of COVID-19, so I really appreciated the few smiles that did stop by.

I wish I could have been with everyone. The list of people would have been expansive. I really miss being able to spend quality time with everyone I care so much about. For me, the one perk about reaching any milestone, is when I can use it as a way to bring others together.

Having to be socially distanced has really brought to light how important our social relationships are.

As human beings, we are physically and emotionally built to be with others. Acknowledging milestones with gatherings help the moment feel valid. Happy and sad moments unify us in the human experience of life.

It is so normal to feel devastated and isolated at times like this. We want so much to break these guidelines that are there to protect us because we crave the desire to be with others. But at the end of the day, limiting our contact and wearing masks are what is going to allow us to all be together again one day with hugs.

This birthday acted as a brief reminder of how important those connections are. It also showed that there are so many ways to still be social but in a distanced way.