You don’t need me to tell you last year was a weird one. However my birthday didn’t fall under quarantine time until this year when my completion of another year came back round.

As an introvert, last year wasn’t all to social. I spent it alone in a now defunct restaurant, drawing in my sketchbook.

This year is about the same, if anything more social as my friendship has adapted to communication online. However, as someone used to enjoying alone time I can offer my thoughts for spending the big day by yourself.

Wear something nice

I can underestimate the power of a good shower. Nice clothes and just getting ready. Having a routine can be really helpful in uncertain times even if it’s just the ritual of getting washed.

Getting ready in my mind makes it go, ‘Oh it’s a special day because i’m looking all nice’ and just has that fresh feeling.

Remember you’re loved

I like to be alone a fair bit (what else is new). But appreciating birthday messages from friends is a way I feel loved. Even from people I haven’t talked to in a while. They still took time to think of me and I appreciate that.

Go easy on the big celebration cake

I’ve never really had a birthday cake because I have no one to share it with. However you might be sharing four walls with a bunch of people right now. They might love a good cake.

Use the power of technology

Being able to communicate with friends over the internet has been a life saver over the past few months. I do spend time away from technology, petting the cat or something but I am thankful to be able to talk to my friends even if virtually.

Go easy on impulse buying

This is something i’ve had to learn from the first round of quarantine. Often one can feel a bit down and be susceptible to such activities but from experience the good feeling is short. Try to do other things to increase positivity. If you see something you would like sit back and think for a bit if it will be useful to you. Remember refunds and returns are also a thing.

Enjoy the small things

Other than my friendships and abiotic conditions being met, for me this is the Christmas lights. I get to see them around the local area and they’re still up on my birthday. I still have those this year and it’s still magical to see.

Find something you enjoy, a food you like or your pets or clothing you like. Anything. It doesn’t matter if it’s small, it just has to bring about good feelings.

Well done for completing another year and here’s to more fun!

Here’s a birthday sketch. It’s like that song birthday sex…but sketching…

Birthday celebration the introvert way.