Photo Challenge Day # 3

Day # 3

Birthdays

"Kinderfest", which came out in the late 18th century Germany, is the closest prerequisite to the contemporary birthday party. This celebration was held for  German children or "kinder" and involved both birthday cake and candles. Children got one candle for each year they'd been alive, plus another to symbolize the hope of living for at least one more year.

Blowing out the candles and making a wish was also part of these celebrations.

  Dressing in my sunday best. Dad with a camera to mark the occasion. Mom, dressed, and cake and coffee ready and the table set. And, they place little Julie on the table next to the cake to take the picture. I have that photo a very small black and white.

As we got older, we picked our cake, chocolate was always my favourite with ice cream. And sometimes we were allowed to pick our favourite meal for your birthday. Feeling special, wondering what was in the package.  Sometimes the camera would come out.

Another high point was going to a friends birthday parties, seeing the balloons, streamers, piles of presents the hot dogs, chips, cake….goodie bags. In some families there would be a cellophane wrapped coins, costume rings tucked in the cake. A surprise for the guests when they had a piece of cake. I am not sure how that tradition came about. But, for me it was a learning experience. 

I know, sometimes on our birthdays,  we look back on the accomplishments of our lives. We set new goals, new challenges. We even look in the mirror and discover more  grey hairs,  and count the laugh lines. We then  head to the drug store to find that wonder cream to bring back our youth.  I also know a few people who cringe at the thought their birthday is coming.

For me today…it was about my family getting together, and for the ones who couldn't, they sent their best wishes…and they know I carry them in my heart. I count my blessings today  as I blow out my candles, my wish is that we can be together next year celebrating once again, and many more years to come. And not just for birthdays but other celebrations as well. And, I shall try not to worry about the laugh lines the wrinkles or the touch of grey hair! 

cake taster 

Day # 3 photo       Cake 

 It was a wonderful birthday celebration! Thank you everyone for the great day(s), the cakes the food, the toast, the cards, the gifts! I truly feel blessed!  I love you all oxo 

See you tomorrow for photo # 4!! 

Jewels