Mummy Guilt - Birthday's!

Almost exactly 3 years ago, we were in full preparation for the birthday party of all birthday parties, Ruby was turning one!

1st Birthday Cake

We produced lots of hand made invites and set-up a small Marquee in my Mum's garden for a Tea party; we had cakes, tea in cups and saucers, scones, puddings and sandwiches; we even decorated the marquee in bunting. The sun was shinning and Ruby received so many wonderful pressies; we had the most amazing day!

Fast forward 3 years and I am feeling like a terrible mummy, I have not organised anything for Lottie;  its her first birthday in less than a month.  To be honest we don't have the money we did back then to be able to throw such a big party, nor do I have the time to sit and make pretty invites and cakes etc; however I still feel really really bad and guilty over it all.

I've spoken to lots of mums and they have all reassured me that it is totally normal to have massive parties for first borns but nothing for subsequent children, or if they do throw a party its a lot smaller.

I also have such a dilemma when it comes to buying Lottie presents; she has an older sister born in the same month, 3 years apart, which means she has everything she could possibly need and want, but still I feel guilty I want to get her something. I am thinking of buying her charms for a charm bracelet, which is something I can do at special events or birthdays but it still does not feel good enough.

Ruby's birthday pressie is already sorted this year, we bought her a little times 8 in 1 climbing frame from eBay and she absolutely loves it. With regards to a party, money has been the deciding factor; we can't really afford to hire a place and don't want to exclude children due to numbers, so we shall not be having a party this year.

Ruby's Birthday Pressie

We are therefore looking into having a day out as a treat (not really sure where yet) and having the rest of the family over for cake and tea in the late afternoon.

I would be really interested if anyone else has this second child dilemma and how are you planning or  had planned to celebrate your child's birthday's? I would also welcome birthday pressie ideas and where is good for a birthday treat day out.