By Carla Rubio
Birthdays are synonymous with celebration: a big party, family or friend reunion to commemorate life on Earth.
But now, as we adapt to the age of COVID-19 and social distancing, our current circumstances have put a damper on how we celebrate. No more huge birthday bashes, or even small family parties at home.
Granted, good health and safety are more important than a birthday party, which is not necessarily high on the priority list at times like these. But that doesn’t mean it’s not sad. In short, COVID-19 is a real party pooper.
Now, instead of dancing the night away or sharing big meals with extended family and friends, it’s just group facetime calls and, hopefully, a gift through the mail. Thankfully, people have found ways to get creative and add some happiness to the virtual celebration, instead of spending the day feeling lonely.
A No-contact Celebration
Seen all over social media, a family ambush with loud honking cars and flashy posters filled with glitter. This is the best way to see friends and family in person on their special day. Cars are seen getting in a line in front of the house — in an informal parade — windows rolled down, and screams at the ready.
And by all means, let them eat cake!
A fun way to treat a quarantine birthday is to have it as a theme for the cake. Bakeries everywhere are using different designs for their signature corona-themed cakes which even includes a toilet-paper cake. Many bakeries are providing curb side pick up or even delivery.
Friends and family can all sing happy birthday using FaceTime, Skype, WhatsApp or everyone’s new favorite teleconference app, Zoom.
Birthdays are special, they are a celebration of life. What better way to honor that than making sure to stay safe and healthy? Virtual celebrations may not be as warm as the real thing, but it just means an extra special celebration next year; or, for my aunt in particular, an opportunity to postpone the acceptance of a new decade!
A Birthday Surprise
In my case, around two weeks ago, my family and I went over to my aunt’s house to celebrate her 30th birthday. My sister made signs, my grandma baked cake to put in containers for everyone, and I painted her something special as a gift.
This shows that even in times like these, we can find some fun and make the most of it.
