Birthday Traditions

With Jack's first birthday quickly approaching I have been thinking a lot about what traditions I want to start. The first birthday is so important for starting such wonderful traditions. There are many great ideas out there. Today I am going to share some of the contenders. 

1. Use a special plate. I had a friend who had one of these growing up and she loved it. Not only was it her birthday plate but her mom brought it out for other special occasions to celebrate such as a good game, baptism, and passing a hard test. 

This is the plate I made for Jack

2. Tell him his birth story. I saw this on Gilmore Girls and I think it is really cute. Such a special moment between child and parent.

3. Photo banner of the past year. I've been taking a picture of Jack each Wednesday since he was born. This idea came from Leslie at Violet Imperfection.  I've been thinking of ways to use them so this would be great. I can then take the pictures and put them in a special album. 

4. Read Happy Birthday to You by Dr. Seuss. I think this would be cute to do that night before bed. 

5. Fill his room with balloons. I'm really considering this one. I love the idea of him waking up to that wonderment. Of course, I am also a little nervous about a baby and balloons. I'm starting to think filling the living room with balloons would be best. I can do it the night before without waking him. 

6. Celebrate with a first. For example, their first hair cut. Each year you have to come up with something else to be their first such as first time on a roller coaster.

7. Professional pictures done. We are doing this for sure this year. The appointment is already made. Here is the outfit I got him to wear. 

8. A gift first thing birthday morning. We have decided to give Jack his present from us first thing that morning. I think it is such a great idea that we'll do it every year. He will get several gifts and I really want to enjoy the excitement of him getting that special present. 

Do you have a favorite birthday tradition?