A second lockdown birthday

[Notabove25]

For DS1.

The first lockdown started the day he was supposed to go out to celebrate his 19th and now his 20th birthday will be in lockdown too.

Not the biggest hardship, compared to what many have suffered, but it has made me sad. What a waste of a year of youth

Same for my much younger DC. It’s crap, but it is what it is and we look forward to making up for lost time when we can. I hope your DC has a good birthday despite the limits.

Could he celebrate it later? In theory by 29 March you can meet up to 6 people outside. Could he do something with friends in park/garden? I agree it's rubbish for them though.

It's horrible isn't it? My DS is about to have his 18th He is a non drinker so I'm doing him a wee tea party like we did when they were all little!

I have two dc in this boat and one announced yesterday that 'I'm now owed 2 birthday parties'! They are both taking it in their stride (both pre teens) and see it as it is what it is. They've just asked for their favourite meal and lots of chocolate cake, easily pleased and taking it all in their stride. They understand that the risk to others (including ecv immediate relatives) is more important in the scheme of things and have said 'I'd rather have Xxx around for many birthdays than a birthday party this year'.

@Notabove25

For DS1.

The first lockdown started the day he was supposed to go out to celebrate his 19th and now his 20th birthday will be in lockdown too.

Not the biggest hardship, compared to what many have suffered, but it has made me sad. What a waste of a year of youth

It’s not a waste of a year though, is it? It’s a very different year, in terms of how we work, study or socialise, but while I totally empathise with the rubbish birthday thing surely his year has not been written off?

He has surely experienced other things, learned about adaptability, flexibility etc.

DS was 21 in the first week of lockdown last year, had to cancel 2 parties. Was hoping to be able to do it this year, but will still be in lockdown.

I'm really sad for him. Those birthdays when you're just reaching adulthood and independence are so much fun, and no matter what anyone says, that year is gone. It isn't coming back.

I guess he will just have to have a crazy, hedonistic summer and throw himself into whatever opportunities his 20s offer. Maybe there will be an upside that he will appreciate it so much more, having missed out in 2020 and 2021.