Ifa's Birthday This Year

Today is Ifa's birthday. The 9th. But like last year, she seems to pay almost no attention to what other children of her age would be eager to celebrate. While Aya, her sister, was just cuek aja upon jumping out of her bed this morning, I did manage to give some kisses and whisper "Dad loves you" in Ifa's ears. We don't celebrate birthdays but like to prepare some gifts. This year we haven't had a chance to find some, but we may arrange something this week when Mom is home. Mom works in Semarang and goes home at least twice a month on weekends.

At 4 a.m. Mom sent a text message: "Happy birthday my dear Ifa, my lovely girl. Semoga Ifa selalu sehat, tambah pintar dan tambah baik." Mba Nur, used to be working at home - now already married and lives in Temanggung of Central Java, asked me to extend her wish for Ifa's happiness on this special day. Later, Ifa's Aunt Titia from Surabaya also texted a message, congratulating Ifa and asking Ifa's photo sent via email. She was planning to print a calendar with Ifa's picture on it as a birthday present.

Told about the texts received, Ifa didn't even bother to look up. She preferred keeping herself busy preparing equipments to bring to her whole school camping at Cibubur today. "Hurry, we have to jump on the car!" Then off we go to school at 6.30. The camping was more important!

I remember last year, for Ifa's 8th birthday, we prepared some surprise presents for Ifa. Mom had secretly bought some gifts, got them wrapped beautifully, and labeled our names, Bapak, Ibu, Om Tyo, Mbak Nur, and Aya. We were as eager as Ifa unwrapping the gifts. Ifa was very happy, smiling the whole day. Mom, what about doing the same again? A surprise party plus some gifts? That could be another memorable 'less important' birthday for Ifa!