What makes the day special?

Birthdays have always been a hallmark in my life. Dinners, cakes, cards, handmade gifts, surprises and the works – there’s always something to look forward to. I often wonder how other families celebrate birthdays. My dad told me that during his childhood, his siblings would know their birthday when they see a chicken drumstick on their plate for dinner that particular night. So simple and uncomplicated. Over the years it has evolved into a birthday cake, then to birthday dinners and as the family became more financially established, an occasional birthday gathering or party.

This makes me wonder how less well to do families celebrate their birthdays. I mean I am blessed enough to treat someone for a lavish meal and buy nice presents on their birthdays, but some people just don't have the same privilege. What I’m saying is that it really doesn’t matter how pricey the gift is or how extravagant the dinner may be, it’s really who you’re spending your birthday with that makes the day special.

I guess I finally understood why Terence is not in favor of surprises on his birthdays. He doesn’t like the big hoo-ha of birthday parties (for his birthday at least) but prefer the quiet evening of quality time spent. That’s him and I have to respect that. So I chose a more romantic option instead but my mom dropped him a pleasant surprise after dinner (read on to find out).

We had dinner at KL Hilton by the pool overlooking the city scapes. I totally recommend the place if you’re looking for a venue for a special night out. The food was good, hot from the grill to our table and service was excellent. The night drifted by quickly and we found ourselves lounging by the poolside – just us.

Just as he thought the night was over, returning home the chorus of “Happy Birthday” burst out from the room and and my sister emerged with a cake and my mom singing along. My dad obviously photographed the whole episode with Terence looking stunned!

The night was still very much ‘private’ and I value that a lot as it is time set apart. Much can be said about Terence. From being his friend, to his confidante and now his lover and partner. I’ve learnt that though we are a year apart in terms of age (him being the younger one), it doesn’t reflect on his maturity and wisdom. I’ve learnt from his life that maturity has more to do with what types of experiences you've had and what you've learned from them and less to do with how many birthdays you've celebrated.

His life is worth the celebration and yesterday was another milestone to be remembered. I’m blessed to have him in my life, and like birthday’s it’s not what we get for our birthdays but who we have in our lives that count. In this case, his birthday was hallmark for me to remember how blessed I am to have him in my life.

Splendid night with a scrumptious spread

Bread - all kinds!

My favourite among the lot - salad!