Moni Meals

While across the world, the restrictions to quarantine due to COVID-19 are being eased, we are still being asked to stay in our homes as much as possible. Most restaurants and activity centres are closed, so what do we do if there is a special celebration coming up? How can we make sure that this one is just as special as the last?

Firstly, it’s important to remember what makes a celebration special. It’s the people, the laughter and the care that is put into the day. Where you spend it really doesn’t matter. So take out any worries that you have over that. Instead, focus on getting creative. What you need right now is some innovative thinking to ensure the day is one to remember.

If you have a child’s birthday coming up, then start to think about the essential elements. Usually, this involves dressing up, music and a delicious cake. There are lots of different kinds, but the funfetti cake is a spectacular one with plenty of wow factor. You can get the full recipe here. To help build excitement, you could ask your child to help you make the cake, but leave the decoration for when they are in bed. Children love to get involved and they love baking and eating! While you are doing this, you could ask any older children to set up the lounge as a disco hall. They can make decorations and even arrange the furniture, so you have a dance floor and a DJ booth! Ask your child to choose a theme for the party and then make sure everyone dresses up for the night. You could even bring friends and family to the party via video call – just remember they need to dress up too.

If your anniversary is coming up, then why not make each other cards and gifts this year. Instead of spending money on flowers or expensive presents. A gift you have made has more meaning than anything that can be bought in a shop. You should also arrange for the children to be in bed or occupied so that you and your partner can have a special dinner. This could be a recipe you know they loved from a restaurant you both used to go to. Or it might be something simple which can be eaten in front of the television while you watch a film that you used to enjoy.

Although things have changed dramatically, it doesn’t mean we have to miss out on really special occasions. We just need to strip it back to basics and get to the heart of what matters—being surrounded by the people that we love and being fit and healthy.

If you can’t be with the person, you love on their special day, take some time to video call them and sit together talking about all the past celebrations you have enjoyed. Give your time, give your love and look forward to next year when we can all be together again.