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By Nadine Westwood

December 31, 2023

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How to Celebrate Family Birthdays While on Travel Assignment 

Distance and work schedules can challenge the emotional bonds we share with our families. Yet, when it comes to birthday celebrations, technology and creativity can lessen the miles.

In this guide, we’ll explore various ways that you, as a travel nurse, can celebrate family birthdays while on travel assignment.

birthdays while on travel assignment

1. Send a Bouquet of Flowers

Nothing quite says “I’m thinking of you,” like the surprise delivery of a beautiful bouquet. Online florists offer a vast selection of flowers under $50, perffor youron a budget. What’s more, blooms from reputed services cater to all types of occasions, including birthdays.

Simply pick a bouquet that matches the style and preferences of your family member. Choose a delivery date, add a personalized message, and let the florists take care of the rest!

2. Using Social Media to Celebrate

Social media platforms have made it easier to connect, especially if you’re across the country. It’s one of the ways to keep in touch when working from miles away. Create and post a birthday collage filled with photos or share videos capturing special moments on Instagram or Facebook.

You can also add a lovely birthday message that appreciates all the amazing qualities of your loved one. This not only makes their day special but also broadcasts your love for them publicly – showing just how proud you are to call them family.

3. Heartfelt Video Messages

If time zones make a live birthday call difficult, consider creating a heartfelt video message instead. You could share your favorite memories together or express how much they mean to you.

The beauty of a recorded message is that it can be watched again and again, bringing comfort and warmth each time. Plus, you can get creative with the video format. Think of singing Happy Birthday, using props, or even involving colleagues in your birthday wishes.

4. Schedule Birthday Calls

Amidst your busy schedule as a travel nurse, remembering to set aside time for a birthday call is crucial. Even a simple phone call can mean the world on such occasions.

Coordinate with family members back home to find a convenient time, possibly when everyone’s together, so you can wish the birthday person en masse. The joy of hearing your voice and seeing you, if it’s a video call, creates memories they’ll cherish long after their special day.

birthdays while on travel assignment

5. A Surprise Visit Home

Now, this isn’t possible for every situation, but if you can coordinate it so your leave aligns with a family member’s birthday, the look on their faces when they see you walk in unannounced would be priceless.

It might require some secret planning and cooperation from other family members. Yet, the effort becomes worth it once you see their tears of joy rolling down past the surprised smile. After all, nothing replaces the warm embrace of family!

6. Set Up Online Gaming Sessions Together

If the birthday person is a game lover, setting up an online gaming session could be a fun way to celebrate. Choose a game that you both enjoy or one that brings back memories.

You can make it a virtual party by inviting other family members or friends to join.

Not only is this a fantastic way to spend quality time together, but it also caters to their hobbies or interests, making their day extra special.

7. Virtual Watch Party for Their Favorite Movie or Show

Consider setting up a virtual watch party of their favorite movie or TV show. Thanks to streaming platforms like Netflix’s Telepathy (a Google Chrome extension) or Amazon Prime’s Watch Party, family members can synchronously watch and comment on the same content.

Not only does this feel like you’re “in the room” to,gether balso ut it opens up conversations and shared laughter – elements that make birthday celebrations even more memorable. Plus, you could coordinate snacks to create a cinema-like atmosphere at home.

8. Mail Them Homemade Treats or Cards

Lastly, consider something traditionally heartfelt, like mailing homemade cards or treats. They encompass the essence of thoughtfulness and personal touch.

Whether it’s a hand-written poem or their favorite cookies, these gestures reflect your effort and love in a very tangible way. Besides, who wouldn’t appreciate a surprise package of homemade goodness?

In Conclusion… 

Being far from home as a travel nurse shouldn’t stop you from celebrating your loved ones’ birthdays meaningfully. Whether you choose to send flowers, schedule calls, or surprise them with a visit, the key is to make them feel loved and cherished even from afar. After all, distance is made smaller through the heart’s connection.

We hope you found this article on ways to celebrate birthdays while on travel assignments helpful. Do you have any ways you celebrate birthdays while on travel assignment? Comment them below.

Interested in a travel nursing job? Our job board is a great place to search for assignments, and if housing is an issue, our housing page can help. It’s time to make a difference!

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

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