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“Mommy, I am going to welcome spring tomorrow,” said my four-year-old daughter on the evening of March 19, the final day of winter. “Tomorrow morning I am going to say, ‘Hello, Spring.’ I can’t wait for spring!” Elle has been anxiously awaiting spring . . . not because of the beautiful flowers it brings, the longer days, or the thought that summer is close behind. No, she loves spring because her birthday is in May. In fact, she has been counting the days until her next birthday since her last birthday in the month of May! Not a day goes by that she does not debate the theme or add a friend to the invitation list. My sister received her invitation well in advance when we called to wish her a happy Valentine’s Day. Needless to say in our family we embrace parties: throwing parties, attending parties, and relishing the one day of the year that focuses on us—our birthday. This tradition was started by my mother, and I have carried on the custom.

As we head into spring and summer, it seems we enter the season of special events: birthdays, weddings, baby showers, graduation parties—our calendars fill up with celebrations and opportunities to honor others. From big affairs to quiet luncheons, each event involves roles, stresses, and responsibilities. Knowing what to do helps us to enjoy the moment and remember it fondly for the rest of our lives!

Enjoy,