Guest Post by Ashley Anderson, Owner of The Village Hive
Today, I find myself on the brink of celebrating my last baby's sixth birthday, and the emotional roller-coaster is in full swing. It's like watching a movie of memories playing in my heart. I can still feel those tiny hands holding mine, the excitement of those first wobbly steps, and the pure, infectious laughter that used to fill every corner of our home. But here we are, with this amazing, funny, inquisitive, and resilient six-year-old who's ready to conquer the world. It's a mix of emotions, really – I'm bursting with pride and can't help but feel a bit misty-eyed thinking about how fast time has flown. Yet, I'm so darn excited about the adventures and discoveries this new chapter will bring her.

The Milestone of Six
As I prepared for the festivities and decorations, I can't help but wonder where the time has gone?! Wasn't it just yesterday that I was cradling this tiny human in my arms, marveling at the miracle of life? Now, she is standing before me, all wide-eyed and eager to embrace the world. Six years old – it's a milestone that carries the weight of countless memories, from the first steps to her first day of school.
The Last of Many
The fact that this is my last child's sixth birthday adds an extra layer of emotion to the mix. It's the last time I'll witness the anticipation of blowing out the candles as a six-year-old, the last time I'll get to pick out the perfect theme together, and the last time I'll see that spark of pure joy as she unwraps her presents. Yet, amidst the tinge of sadness that comes with these "lasts," there's an overwhelming sense of gratitude and love. Love that has multiplied with each child and each birthday celebration. And what better way to celebrate those cherished moments than with a unique and heartwarming new tradition: using one candle for every month we have loved her!
The Enchantment of Every Candle
Now, close your eyes and picture this: a room bathed in the soft, golden glow of candles, each one telling a story of a month filled with belly-aching laughter, the occasional tears, a touch of chaos, and a treasure trove of unforgettable adventures.
Imagine your cake, not with just six or even twelve candles, but a whopping 72 (or hey, make it 81 if you're counting the months of anticipation during pregnancy!)—each one a little beacon of love and connection
So, the next time you're planning a birthday celebration, think about incorporating this heartfelt tradition of using one candle for every month you have loved them. It's not just about the visual spectacle; it's like a heartfelt journey map, tracing the steps you've taken as mother and child, and reminding you of the beautiful story you continue to write together.
Preparing for the Celebration
To get started, you obviously need candles and a cake, but I wanted something more grand for my little love bug this year! I needed something as dramatic and wonderful as she was. That’s when we found the amazing Celebration Stadium candle holder for the ultimate birthday display! The wow factor the Celebration Stadium and custom birthday tray gave, and the look on her face, was priceless! The best part is how customize-able it is too. It can hold up to 100 candles so we will be able to use it over and over again. (My friend is already asking me to use it for her husband's upcoming 50th birthday!) It was the perfect centerpiece of her birthday celebration.
Lighting the Candles
Lighting birthday candles for a child is like kindling a miniature fireworks show of joy and wonder. I love watching their little round, eager eyes sparkle as they make their wish. And I always make note to see their little hands tremble with anticipation as they lean in to blow out those flickering flames.
Any type of candle will honestly do, but I love the drama these gold candles from Celebration Stadium provided for our little one’s birthday. They were like little bits of golden treasure around her cake- fit for the princess she truly is on this day!
Making a Wish
Once all the candles are shining brightly, it's wish-making time! This wish isn't just about the future; it's a celebration of the love we've shared for the past 72 months and a toast to all the love that's yet to come!
As we gather around to sing "Happy Birthday," we get to witness not just the passing of another year but the blossoming of her dreams, hopes, and the promise of new adventures she is going to discover. It is such a simple act, yet it holds such power to ignite pure happiness in the heart of a child, leaving an indelible memory that will be cherished for years to come for this mama.
Closing: A Candlelit Journey of Love
As she blows out the last of the candles around her birthday cake, my heart swells with a profound sense of gratitude. This quirky tradition of one candle for each month has taken on a deeper meaning for me than I ever imagined. It's not just about marking the passage of time; it's about celebrating the love that fills our home every day.
Every flickering flame represents a cherished memory, a shared adventure, and the joy of watching our children become the remarkable individuals they are destined to be. So, as we snuggle up after the cake has disappeared and the presents have been opened, I'm filled with gratitude for the beautiful journey we have been blessed with. Here's to many more months, candles, and endless moments of love. After all, every month filled with love is a treasure worth celebrating!

About the Author: