Estrangement and birthdays, feeling low and dreading birthday

Although I’m not estranged from family, my Hubby & son have never really bothered about birthdays, DH works abroad, it’s unusual for him to be home, & DS now adult & living away. So I spoil myself! I book the day off work, sometimes book a facial or manicure, & often go to the cinema later on with either a nice takeaway or just a McDonalds drive through! Pick something you enjoy & have a lovely day xx

Self love!

My favourite thing to do is please my inner child as she was neglected growing up.

So my handbag is covered in unicorns and flowers and I give zero whatevers who may laugh because my inner child is very happy indeed lol

I agree with Starblaze Start spoiling yourself

Oh my goodness! Buy presents for you!

Also, maybe try telling someone it is your birthday. Not everyone wants to ruin it for you, promise

Thanks again, I've never thought of buying myself Presents! I have never told my friends when my burthday is, they don't know I'm estranged really. I've booked the day off work which is a good start...

ineedamum I made an effort to enjoy my birthday this year and I did.

All those unhappy memories and that feeling that you aren't deserving, should never have belonged to you.

Plan something you enjoy, even if that's a day in bed. Open presents, even if you have to buy them yourself.

Let those who love you celebrate the day you came into this world.

Put the happy back in birthday

If you are going to be on your own, think about what you feel comfortable doing without being accompanied by friends or family. Maybe get your hair and nails done, buy yourself a nice slice of cake and, if you aren't happy eating out on your own, order yourself a nice takeaway.
I can cope with birthdays but it's New Year's Eve that I hate with a passion. It's such a long day on your own.
Life isn't always what we'd hoped for is it!

Definitely plan something and treat yourself. Whatever your treat of choice is. And as Smileless says, let us know when the big day is.

Lots of self pampering like spa treatments or manicures. Lunch at a special place with friends. Or a picnic with friends if the weather is good. But as Smileless says, don't forget to tell us when the special day is so that we can all wish you a Very HappyBirthday.

I hope when you've decided that you'll be doing that you'll let us know and when it is your birthday ineedamum, so we can send you birthday wishes on the day.

Thank you for taking the time to post with some useful tips. I think I need to plan something and have something to look forward to.

Take yourself off for a treat. Back massage, manicure, pedicure? Go some place new, somewhere you've always wanted to visit but never got around to. Potter around window shopping, coffee, lunch, seaside for fish & chips, if near enough. National Trust garden or house? Take a train or a bus somewhere distant and enjoy the new views/scenery. Buy yourself something nice, a small trinket that catches your eye. Plan it now, research opening times, Covid restrictions etc and GO for it. Lift your chin and enjoy your day! Happy birthday!! X

Ineedamum, Enjoy your birthday and celebrate the fact that you are special, everyone is, the fact that your family have not recognised this, is there loss. ? enjoy your day, treat yourself, I always do, I’m not special to anyone anymore, but I love my birthday and celebrate the fact I’m here enjoying life, you never know what’s round the corner. Be happy,

for when your birthday is here ineedamum. There are times in our lives and certain events that come around every year that seem to magnify loneliness.

Some good ideas from Jaxjacky and when work ask you what you'll be doing you can say 'I don't know yet, it's a surprise' which if you haven't decided, is true.

Maybe a special meal, do you have anywhere that delivers, you can order double and freeze some if there is a minimum charge? It depends what cheers you, flowers, a downloaded film, a walk by the coast or just stay in pj’s all day? It’s difficult to make suggestions when you don’t know someone. As for work, you could say you’re having a lazy indulgent day...x