Metamorphosis 2: Milestone Birthdays in the Pandemic Year

Yesterday they were just babies in my arms and in the blink of an eye, they are now both young adults. In this second year of the pandemic, our son and daughter celebrated their respective milestone birthdays - turning 21 and 18 respectively.

We had a simple birthday celebration at home. For Kevin's 21st birthday, my parents were able to celebrate with us and it also doubled as a despedida for my nephew, Justin, who would be flying to the U.S. to live permanently with his mom (my sister) and stepdad. For Kyla's 18th birthday it was just the four of us for a lunch celebration. I used to be able to plan these important milestone birthdays ahead of time, with a modest sized party at a hotel with our family and closest friends who genuinely care for Kevin and Kyla. But it was not meant to be in this pandemic where safety comes first and we would rather not risk exposure both for our sake and for the guests as well.

We still want it to be happy and memorable celebration for our children so we tried to recreate a festive atmosphere at home through birthday decorations, picture banners and birthday feast with their favorite dishes and cakes, video compilation of their growing up years. We are also grateful for our family, family friends and godparents who were part of this special day through their video messages and sent generous gifts.

This pandemic may have disrupted our lives, brought about a #newnormal way of life and kept us apart but it also made us dig deep into our hearts. We are thankful for each day that is given to us, for these moments that we continue to be together as a family and the friends around the world who care for Kevin and Kyla despite the separation and distance.