I celebrated my 32nd birthday this weekend. It seems surreal. Two things come to mind: How am I 32? And birthdays are not the same with kids.

I am at the age where I live birthday celebrations vicariously through my daughter. She gets the big parties and all the special gifts. We gather as much family as possible together on her special day to celebrate her big life milestones.

You may ask why I do this.

Why is my 32nd birthday not as important?

My 32nd birthday is important. At this age, I have just decided to celebrate in a different fashion.

What about birthday gifts?

What do I need at 32? Especially since I am an established adult who can go buy item when I want to.

I remember being young like my daughter and creating lists of toys I want, and just praying I get them from my parents. I am that parent now. I want to look over her list and see  what she desires most and what will give us that squeal of excitement to open.

I just want happiness. As an adult, I just pray everyone is safe, there is food on the table, and the bills get paid. Priorities change when we get older.

I can clearly denote the difference between a “want” and a “need.” I don’t always like too, but I can.

So, no birthday gifts at all?

I may indulge in a splurge. I always have something in one of my online shopping carts, waiting to get checked out. Or I have my eye on a new outfit for the office or to workout in.

My ideal birthday gift though in my 30s is a house project. I am always dreaming of some new addition or update.I love knocking things off our to do list.

But, news flash: I may love a house project as a birthday gift, but my husband is the opposite. He equates a birthday celebration to relaxing.

Did you enjoy a birthday cake?

Always! Calories don’t count on birthdays.

I love baking the newest pinterest recipe I find. The difference is in my 30s, I just don’t want to be stuck with a whole birthday cake on my devise. This year I opted for cupcakes that I was able to pass them out to coworkers safely.

What is your idea of a perfect 32nd birthday?

Spending time with my family.

Counting my blessings.

A time to reflect what happened the past year, while examining the future at the same time.

My birthday is still my birthday every year (even though I share my special day with my father). Anyone else share their special day with someone else? This is what makes my day special.

I enjoy sharing my celebration with family and friends. I enjoy the small moments in life.