Itz Holistically Wholesome

Is it me who’s getting older, or is it my daughter? Sometimes I have to stop and remind myself that I’m the mother of a young adult. Wow, wasn’t I just a little girl not so long ago? When did the years fly by?

This past weekend, my eldest daughter celebrated her 20th birthday—yes, you heard me right, two decades! Even though she’s away at college, I couldn’t let this milestone pass without her family nearby. Her teenage years are behind her now, and as she said, the twenties are when “most things happen”—college graduation, landing a career, meeting a potential spouse, maybe even buying a home, getting married, and having children. Ah, that’s a lot—let me catch my breath! Is this what they call the empty nest syndrome? She’s right, though; when you think about it, a lot does happen in our twenties.

I originally planned to surprise her for the weekend, but, oops—I accidentally spilled the secret by texting my plans in a group chat she was in! So, of course, she saw it. Tadah! Secret’s out! But still, we were going to see her, and I made a few of her favorite plant-based meals: barbecue tofu, rice and peas, and mac & cheese. I even made her a special birthday cake. I aimed for something personal, tasty, healthy, and unforgettable—a cake to etch in her memory that her mom made just for her. After a busy day on Friday, we packed everything up and headed upstate to New York for the weekend. We left later than planned and battled city traffic, finally arriving at my sister-in-law’s place around 1 a.m.

On Saturday, we visited the church she attends while at college. It was lovely to have fellowship there and to officially meet the couple who kindly picks her up each Sabbath, brings her to church, and drops her off afterward. I made sure to thank them for their kindness and for looking out for her. After church, we headed back to my sister-in-law’s for lunch and to enjoy the rest of the day.

Lunch was delicious, and we were satisfied. We sang her “Happy Birthday” and enjoyed her cake for dessert. She loved it and appreciated us taking the time to share this special moment with her.

I am always thankful for my daughter’s humility. Though our gesture wasn’t grand, she was so appreciative. I pray that God will continue to bless her every day.

The day was cold, so we stayed in for the evening, but her younger siblings were so happy to spend time with her. Though the time was short, it was meaningful. After all, what’s better than time with family?

I hope this post encourages you to seize every opportunity to spend time with your loved ones. Life is short—let’s make the most of it.

God bless.