Not to want to host a meal for family on my birthday

It was my birthday yesterday and we were invited to DD's for a meal which was absolutely lovely. Champagne on arrival then a roast chicken meal followed by a birthday cake dessert of chocolate brownie cake(plus candles) with strawberries, raspberries and home-made ice-cream. All delicious and hugely enjoyable.

I don't think it's too much to expect your birthday to be just that - your day. I don't want gifts - I already have too much stuff. Being with my loved ones is all I really want.

Exactly!

Agree with all above. Simple meal for son and GF and then enjoy your birthday.

I would certainly not expect my children to expect me to entertain them on my birthday. No Way!

Certainly not. I would expect the family to throw a celebration for me. You shouldn't have to prepare your own birthday party!

Suzied I posted this on the Thought for the Day thread because we (as women? as grandmas?) are sometimes asked to do things we'd rather not do.

I'm happy to help or host if I want to, but I'm also going to practise this saying 'no' more in the future - with a smile only!

Certainly not unreasonable, I would feel exactly the same.

You are not being unreasonable. Not in this household anyway. Every family is different.
I would make it clear.