The Mama Perspective | Mum Blog

This month, I celebrated turning 31 years old and hitting 34 weeks pregnant on the same day. It was a quiet milestone, and it got me thinking about how birthdays can change as we get older or maybe because we’re at a different stage of our lives to someone else. This year I worked my usual working day although it was nice to have worked from home. Then in the evening I couldn’t wait to have a nice bath whilst Danny took Freddy to the park. The two of them also surprised me by singing Happy Birthday with cake and candles, after Danny telling me “to sit down a minute please to relax.” He says that so often to me, especially these days! And Danny being Danny, also put banners around the house including the front door even though it wasn’t a significant birthday – he just wanted to make that special effort and I love him even more for that.

When I look back to my twenties, birthdays were let’s say more exciting. There were more group messages, more social media notifications, and a lot more going on. This year, I noticed fewer texts and DMs but some messages came from people I hadn’t spoken to in a while including old colleagues and family members who I don’t see often. It felt nice for a little message to show acknowledgment of my birthday or to know someone was thinking of me.  

Then there’s the birthday card situation. Cards seem to be less these days, but I’ve always loved receiving them. My favourites this year came from my husband and son (no shock there), but I also loved the thoughtfulness of two of my colleagues who’ve been there for me in different ways. Walking into work the day after my birthday and being greeted with that kind of kindness made the day feel that much better. 

Turning 31 didn’t stop me from getting excited about cake and being thankful for cute themed gifts – just like the person who got me a Stitch gift bag and card that made my inner child smile. And another person who included cake (because they underhand the importance of cake on a birthday), and a positive quote and wellness cards – all perfect for me!

I may not look my age, but I carry it proudly. There’s a story behind every year including how I’ve grown in my career, struggled through some mental health aspects in my life, became a wife to my best friend, and most importantly, becoming a mum to my son, and soon to be second little boy. 31 feels like a turning point in the best way – quiet confidence, having the right relationships in my life even if my circle has changed, and appreciation for the little things that made a big difference in my life for me. 

I think as you get older, you start to realise what’s more meaningful to you. And it’s not about how many people show up or send messages, it’s about who shows up. The people who are there in your everyday life, who lift you up, who love you through every version of yourself.

I’m thankful for my little family. The love and admiration my husband and son give me on my birthday and every single day reminds me that this chapter of life, even with the tiredness and heavy pregnancy stage, the best is yet to come.

Birthdays change. But the love I get from the most important people in my life and the memories made along the way are what truly matters.