Usher in "Baby" Sister's 70th with a Party

Dear Ellie:

I am six years older than my sister. Because of our age difference, we were not very close when we were growing up. When she was an infant and toddler, I was off to school. By the time she started elementary school, I was busy becoming a teenager. When I was in high school, she was still in elementary school. Then I went off to college, and our parents soon divorced. She spent time with our father’s new family, and I did not. As adults, we have had very different lives, even though we live only about 30 minutes apart.

My “baby” sister is about to turn 70. She has faced a series of health problems, is divorced and self-supporting, and her children are not in a position to help her financially.

I’d like to do something special for her big birthday. What do you suggest? Shirley

Dear Shirley:

I’m glad that you would like to help celebrate your “baby” sister’s birthday in a special way. It sounds like she really deserves it. She has had many challenges to face in her life.

Any birthday is reason to host a party, but the first birthday of every decade is especially important. We focus on the transitions in life as we enter each new decade. Becoming 70 means that every year really counts. We all hope that we can remain healthy and energetic for many years. Since your sister has already had some health problems, it is not too soon to support her in every way that you can.

I suggest that you host a birthday party at your home, in a restaurant, or any place that you choose. It doesn’t have to be fancy. It can be as simple as having birthday cake and ice cream, or as elaborate as serving a full dinner.

I especially like birthday parties that include both family members and friends. Children of many families can get to know each other at such occasions, something they will remember for the rest of their lives. Busy adults often find opportunities to have in-depth conversations at parties that they don’t seem to have time for in the course of their everyday lives.

The more generations, the merrier: great-grandparents and toddlers both love birthday parties. There is nothing so festive as a few balloons, a personally decorated birthday cake, candles, cards, and gifts.

It’s good to hear that you are feeling positively about your sister. Many siblings grow apart as they age. It sounds like you two have become closer as you have grown older. Relish the years that each of you have left. The more new things that you share together, the closer you will become.

Have a party! And have a great time! Please wish your sister a very happy birthday for me!  Ellie