Celebrating my Indian mother's birthday for the first time + eggless chocolate cake recipe

We celebrated my mother-in-law's birthday for the first time ever here in Kerala at the end of January, and of course I baked an easy pure veg birthday cake for her! She was really happy with the gesture and narrated the emotional story of how she was scared about getting a foreign bahu initially, and how she is so happy with me now :)
You might have seen in my earlier videos that birthday celebrations aren't a big thing in my Indian family. My husband hates birthdays, my father-in-law doesn't remember exactly how old he is and Mommy only knew she was born around the Hindu festival Sankranti. But growing up in Finland, birthdays were always an essential part of the year for us. And especially now with little Baby North on the way, I want to teach our kid the tradition of celebrating milestones like these - and the rest of my family too!
#familytime #emotionalvlog
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Namaste friends 🙏 My name is Johanna and I'm an Indian wife, living and travelling in India for almost 4 years now. I'm originally from Finland, but currently we are settled in northern Kerala. I'm not a traveller, but vlogging and discovering India - 21/29 states.

[@maryaugustine6246]

Such a loving mom..... Her worries were also true, but you turned out to be such a loving daughter. God bless you and your family.

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you so much 😊🙏

[@littleben2377]

I feel emotional when mummy speaks from her heart.😔

[@JohannaNorth]

😭❤️❤️❤️

[@ishratkhan1940]

This is heart warming moment JOHANNA hugging mother in law

[@JohannaNorth]

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@lynda.grace.14]

How wonderfully Mommy glows when the cake with candles comes out for her. How vital these moments in our lives when we stop to focus on one person and all that they mean to us are. I can no longer do this for my parents who are no longer alive, but I'm grateful for all the times that I created those special birthday, anniversary, Mother and Father's Day occasions for them. How lovely, too, that Mommy did not give into her fear and hold Vinod back. How rewarded she now is for that courage. I wish other parents watching her confession might take heart and open theirs as she has. Blessings to you and your family, Johanna.

[@JohannaNorth]

I also fondly remember all those birthdays/special occasions me and my sister made our parents breakfast in bed ❤️ I very much hope to teach the same thing to our kids. Mommy is definitely an extraordinary woman in her community. Very progressive in so many ways without anyone educating her to be that way! I’m so happy she saw through the foreignness in me ❤️❤️❤️

[@llewelyn1]

Your Mom has just made a grown man cry with such beautiful words. My partner of 25 years is also of Indian heritage and it is amazing to have that all important mutual acceptance in all elements of a successful relationship. Your kindness shines through. The arrival of the little one will no doubt cement the already loving bond 💙👍

[@JohannaNorth]

Mommy doesn’t share emotional words like this that often, but omg when she does it makes for the whole year 😭❤️❤️ i’m one more for those emotional words, but of course Vinod and his family show their care in their other actions. Happy to hear you’ve also had a successful partnership. I’m already dreaming of our 25th, 50th anniversaries with grandkids and so on 🥰

[@llewelyn1]

@@JohannaNorth thanks for the reply Johanna...some of us show our unconditional love and respect in so many other ways so I completely agree. Words are great but actions speak louder. Nevertheless moms words when they are spoken as you’ve said mean so much more...love your vlogs...they brighten our day. Vinod and yourself are clearly meant to be. We are longing to get back to India 🇮🇳 for a long vacation. Keep up with the vlogs. They are awesome. Stay safe. Much love from us in the U.K. 🇬🇧

[@NK-cq1ch]

Mommy sharing how relatives told her not to let vinod marry with someone out of india, emotional it made me. Yes johanna is really very good daughter in law. You are really a happy family 🥰

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you 🙏 mommy’s support especially makes me always very emotional too 😭❤️

[@sukhvinderkaur8983]

I literally cry,,when aunty explain her worries,,, As parents as good as thy have children,,, So beautiful,, God bless,

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you so much :)

[@kadhambarikeshava995]

I don't know if you cried Johanna hearing to what aunty say, but I cried. See, that's the reason they say Mother's are next to God. They are so selfless and loving. They just can't come in the way of children's happiness. And aunty must be very happy to have you as her daughter in law. You are a kind and loving human being. ❤

[@ramparkash2318]

Kadhambari Keshava. Ur saying absolutely right.

[@lynda.grace.14]

Sadly, not all mothers are. There are many who pout and sulk and manipulate their children. Some have too much pain from their own lives to be selfless or loving.

[@JohannaNorth]

Mommy’s love always brings tears to my eyes ❤️ she is just the most exceptional woman!

[@--jenC--]

My mother did everything she could from getting me married to my husband. I finally left home after trying to convince for 2 years and got married. My family did not want to be part if it and they did not come. Anyway its been 8 years now and we have 2 boys and a third on the way. We have reunited with my parents and family and they love their grandchildren but I do not see my mom as selfless, God or loving. She still tries to inflict hurt by her words and actions and justifies herself by saying she cares. I also learnt she does with everyone in her life. I made my peace and settled with the fact that she enjoys seeing others get hurt and she enjoys when others get agitated and she loves to argue and tease. I trained myself to not respond and have limited contact with her and my father. I do care for them but I also learnt to keep my distance from them because it is just healthy for me. When I see moms who are close to their daughters, I have that longing for one. And always see those daughters as blessed. I have decided to be there for my kids no matter what. It is not their action that makes me love them but the fact that they are my kids. I have decided to not agitate my kids simply. But desire for peace and harmony. I guide them but if they still insist on having their way, I let them do their mistakes and they face the consequences. I just hope when they grow up and if they ever want to talk to their mother, that they should feel free to come to me.

[@kadhambarikeshava995]

You just reassure her each time by your care and actions that aunt's decision of having you as the daughter in law was not wrong at all.

[@JohannaNorth]

❤️🙏

[@DTreagust]

that was a beautiful video. thanks so much. from a Hindi learner in Australia

[@RajeevKumar-mu9wb]

Mom has such a cute face and a disarming smile. You are lucky Johanna to have such a loving mom

[@prasathkrishnaswamyvaradha3394]

It's been 2years, rewatching Vinod's mom's speech and brimming with smiles. Hope you all are happier than then with arrival of Annika!

[@keerthanaanandhan_official]

You are so lucky to have a kind hearted in laws🎉🎉

[@JohannaNorth]

I completely agree! ❤️

[@bori3dyt724]

@@JohannaNorth ikr

[@rupalipandey8501]

Happiest Birthday to Aunty 🎂🎉🎁 And lots of ❤️ to you my dear! Ur vlog just made my day!!!

[@riyajacob3798]

I literally cried when I saw this video as I missed my mother in law, I live in UAE and she in India... you are lucky have for each other, god bless you Joanna. You take care of them so gracefully ❤️ I loved the sprinkles on the cake and also when you licked the left over cake batter.. I do that as well even now ... one of my memories with my sister we used to fight as kids to see who gets to lick the cake batter on the bowl and spoons when our mom bakes 😂

[@JohannaNorth]

I have ALWAYS loved the batter, icing, whipped cream scrapes the most :D Thankfully I didn't have to fight my sister, because if my memory serves me right, she didn't like those! I wouldn't have liked to share anyways :D Hope you see your MIL soon too

[@riyajacob3798]

Thank you Johanna

[@ivonneleaty8501]

I had tears such a beautiful thing your mother in-laws said. Happy Birthday to her ❤.

[@pauline6005]

So lovely of your mil to say that. It's no concern of what others think especially those who dont belong to your family. They should keep to their own buisiness. . Your mother was right yo show concerns but handle them well and that of others. Well done aunty. The power of a woman 💪

[@bhoomikashah6804]

Johanna, I just randomly started watching your videos, but I'll be very honest, while watching this one particularly, it brought tears to my eyes. Though there is a language barrier, but the language of Love is same for everyone. It is so beautiful to see how you have heartily adapted yourself to Indian culture.

[@shreyapatel5270]

I am in such an awe.. does family like this exist? Sweet, loving, beautiful daughter in-law who desires to have relationships with in-laws and sweet mother in law with complete acceptance! Including enjoying foreign food..? My relatives refuse to eat when I make American dish. I was never accepted by my in-laws since I come from different faith(Jain) I am not religious! Your mother in law was worried you being foreigner but believe me I have seen cold and selfish Indian daughter in-laws towards their kind, loving in-laws. Your mommy doesn’t need to worry she is really lucky to have you. Your acceptance of each other is marvelous. Thank you Johanna for eggless cake recipe and that finger licking icing. ❤️❤️ ❤️🥰

[@JohannaNorth]

Aww thank you Shreya

[@shreyapatel5270]

Oh yes, different habits, life styles and generation gap and oh those expressions 🙄 it can be difficult sometimes. Well, whatever you all are doing to keep it together is just so beautiful.. so please keep it up. Couple of months and your bundle of joy will be in your arms😍 wish you all the luck and all the blessings ❤️❤️❤️

[@pallaviyadav944]

Indian moms birthdays are rarely celebrated so her happiness can be seen clearly....and what she said about the scenario of marrying a foreigner is true....but Johanna has changed that mindset.....she is really a gem...stay blessed guys...:)

[@elisabetta4478]

Oh dear Johanna, what a tear-jerker episode has this been 😍 I am moved😍 Vinod and his beloved ones are lucky to have you in their life. Take care

[@gireeshans9742]

Moms are always so caring, loving at the same time so strong 🙏

[@sapnahande6302]

You can make everyone smile Johana😘. You have a natural talent to make everyone happy around you. You have a good heart full of love. Happiness is having daughter-in-law like you😊Happy Birthday to Aunty🎂🥳

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you so much, thats so kind of you! I really enjoy making people happy 😊 and Mommy is grateful for the birthday wishes too 😊🙏

[@kesiyak.s.7708]

I don't know why, but I was about to cry when your mom-in-law said she was worried about having you as her daughter in law but it turns out to be that you're an incredibly beautiful soul!!!

[@deepajacob3219]

You are so lucky to get a loving family, I mean in laws....

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you, i totally agree! ❤️

[@surobhisaikia7730]

They are very lucky have you!! You embraced them with all your being and they accepted you and reciprocated exactly the same way !! It’s mutual!!

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you, I’m also super lucky to have them ❤️

[@surobhisaikia7730]

Johanna North relationships do not happen in vacuum!! It’s not just luck, it needs work and nurturing .. like your plants! Sun, light and watering 😀 so does our relationship !!! If we leave everything to our luck ..we will be in big trouble😀😃

[@onenow2]

Johanna, i was so touched by your loving gift to your mother-in-law on her birthday, and your unconditional love for her even though she doubted you. Your mother-in-law is very fortunate to have a daughter-in-law like you. you're actions are touching her heart .

[@lotikalal8927]

U don't know what you did to them with yr beautiful gesture.......its written all over their face...God bless u johanna!

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you 😊🙏 i do understand quite well how special it is to them both to have celebrated their birthdays for the first time thanks to me, Vinod also explains to me quite well how my in-laws aren’t really people who care much about how expensive or extravagant something might be, but they LOVE the simple gestures 😊❤️❤️❤️ and i love giving them new experiences and making them happy ❤️

[@prasathkrishnaswamyvaradha3394]

She almost had tears when was describing the story behind the wedding ! This is so nice

[@JohannaNorth]

Mommy definitely hits the bull's eye everytime she decides to give emotional speeches

[@muzeenasaroof5120]

Johanna you are lucky to get a mother in law and I think even her words came from her bottom of her heart praising you and accepting you as her daughter in law . Stay blessed.

[@gaurisingh3985]

Your mom in law's words and your affection for each other made me shed a few tears. What a simple yet wonderful way to start a new tradition and celebrate life. That combination of your cake and coconut ice-cream has me craving for some myself. Please share the recipe for the pasta, it looked delicious 👌

[@JohannaNorth]

I had a few tears in my eyes too 😭❤️ I’ll try to film the pasta recipe next time I make it! 😊

[@gaurisingh3985]

@@JohannaNorth Great, thank you 😊

[@shafiaaminath409]

A sweet moment .. love & respect from both side is heart warming lovely & kind MIL & FIL ..u r angelic .. stay blessed 💖

[@satiesankar7280]

Mummy has a heart full of pure love for you johanna...Happy Birthday mummyji.such humble and loving peoole..god bless.

[@JohannaNorth]

And i love Mommy to the Moon and back too ❤️

[@sindhuthomas2151]

Love this.Nothing matters , if there is love and kindness. Your mom is so beautiful.

[@sungai447]

You are so lucky to have such a good mum &dad in law.they are so awesome to you.

[@maryaugustine6246]

Happy Birthday to dear mummy

[@JohannaNorth]

Mommy says thank you ❤️🙏

[@robus152]

Love between wife n mother in law is best thing for a family n husband.

[@nekrozgaming9724]

Wao even im crying after watching this . Happy belated bday to Auinte ji. May all her wishes come true.

[@marthaaugustine3835]

Happy birthday to young and beautiful mother in law of Johanna North

[@bibihalimakhanam2260]

I have been binge watching your videos. They are so inspiring and heartfelt, i can feel the love you have for your family and your adopted country.

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you so much for the kind words! :)

[@muniraalibhai6785]

This proves love, respect and effort is a two way street. Such a loving daughter and even lovely in laws. Heartwarming moment ❤️😇

[@JohannaNorth]

You are so kind, thank you :)

[@learn-2-earnn]

U r very lucky to have such a great humble family ...

[@travelsoul2349]

True, honest from heart ur mom in law .. Many you tubers fake and its more dramatic.. But I just see your parents are soo simple and cool

[@yerlyngonzalez1964]

Happy birthday to her God bless her always 🙏🥰🎉🎂🎁🎈🎊

[@WORLDHUMANK]

This is one of the most beautiful videos I have ever seen ...a true moment of happiness captured on video and shared with us - you're a great human being Johanna ... Glad I found your channel

[@deep5731]

Everyone in your family including you are very sensible. You guys have respect for each other. All relationships are based on respect, trust and love and when one is missing from these three that’s when the problems start. I wish you all the best .

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you so much 😊 I 100% agree with you and those three things. They are absolutely essential.

[@RunhdeepS.Sandhu]

Love your videos Johanna. I discovered them the other day and am hooked. Love seeing and hearing about the country my parents and grandparents immigrated from! I quite enjoy hearing your tales of exploration and love. The love displayed between you and your family is wonderful. Keep up the good work and take care!

[@mech3694]

U should be lucky that everything is happening to u at " Gods own country ".🤩🤩😊😊👍🙏🙏

[@TheIndemir]

Your mom is a genuine loving lady. You can see that , god bless you all

[@cbhim2709]

Beautiful. But, got teary eyed listening to Mommy. What a great family...with unconditionally love.

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you so much!

[@mamap8765]

Happy happiest Birthday to mommy❤️ The world's best loving family. God bless!

[@ashavinayaraj5880]

U are a sweetheart , Johanna. Keep your innocence intact. God bless u and your Finnish and Indian family .

[@lalhlupuiisailo4434]

So thoughtful of you preparing dinner and cake for your MIL on her birthday.

[@JohannaNorth]

It’s my family (if not Finnish in general) custom 😊 we always had a celebratory meal for the birthday girl/boy and always always served breakfast in bed too ❤️

[@kavitanair7061]

The shortest distance between two person is understanding. That is why there is love and affection in your family.

[@sherlythomas8968]

Happy birthday

[@shanesgounder7138]

Mam, carryy on. In India a husband like vinod, is heaven given.( Mam I watched every videos.) Love your family always.. especially Annika.

[@maheshsawant3538]

So sweet of you to bake a cake and also cook such a delicious dinner for your mother in law. Despite of hearing what her extended family said or her neighbours said regarding you getting married to Vinod she did not stop him that is something I really appreciate it's very important when you have the whole hearted support of your parents. You have proved everyone wrong and that people can't be judgmental hope they have learnt their lessons well. I hope you are keeping good health. Wishing you all the very best 👍 ✌

[@JohannaNorth]

It's a Finnish family tradition of mine that we prepare a meal and a cake for the birthday hero. Mommy has been taking such good care of me during these last couple of months that she totally deserved a night off from cooking! :)

[@atefehhom4178]

Thanks for cake recipe ,it looks amazing I feel so much positive energy from your family ❤️🙏🏻

[@rupiarahman8242]

What A beautiful Bond you have with your in laws and esp With your mother in law .they respect all your efforts and hard work So much Love,blessings & Light from Uk 🇬🇧 Johanna you have a Pure Heart ❤

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you so much for the kind words 🙏😊 I’m absolutely lucky to be a part of Vinod’s family ❤️

[@kelikeys27]

Oh my goodness your in laws are beautiful people and they love you so much. You are all very blessed ❤️

[@JohannaNorth]

You are so kind :) Thank you!

[@sairamji115]

proud to you Johanna , anti ji very happy with you ...got tears

[@shivkrishnair3702]

Happy birthday to Aunty...😘😘🥰🥰🥰

[@JohannaNorth]

Mommy is very grateful 🙏

[@khehra84]

Tears in my eyes..your mother in law is very sweet and vinod is the lucky guy to have you johana..God bless the beautiful family ❤ 😊

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you so much

[@lipuntat]

I hope she could make it like... flying beast. These vlogs are short but.. wonderful.

[@evanmathew819]

Vinod's parents are the real god's gift for you and vice-versa..god bless you all 🙏

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you :)

[@sukumaranvinodkumar]

Happy birthday mummy 💖💖💖💐🎂🌹

[@user-bd7zo1jd1x]

Your mother's words made me emotional. Happy Birthday to her.

[@brownyskitchen5614]

Happy birthday mummy....enjoy ur birthday with ur beloved family

[@aghilanmayan97]

Those words came from mummy.🧡. from her bottom heart... That feel so... Good.. When she say I love johanna and I made a correct decision..she say's..that's makes me cry... Wow.. Lovely moment 😍🥰🥰🥰

[@yasarbank]

Lovely mommy

[@rajramrattan3083]

May GOD continue to bless you and your family.

[@tampabay2888]

A small event but a life time memory fr her , shud b dedicated to all moms who hs ben sacrificing their life inside four walls of kitchen.

[@clydellaperies4721]

Tears came running down gripped with emotion when I watched this video. You had done a great decision to stay in India. You followed your husband and made your husband and his family happy. You are an angel from heaven. You know the value of the family. For a young person you have got great wisdom. Your husband Vinodh has got all the personalities of a good husband with family values. Wishing you and your family all the best. I would like to meet you one day, when I visit India. Happy birthday to your mother in law. Big hugs to you all.

[@AC-wk6gj]

Your mother in law is such a pretty lady.

[@sanjayvithalkar3336]

Very graceful

[@devasishbiswas7772]

Happy birthday🎂🎁🎉👑

[@Veggivibes]

wow you and your MIL so lovely . God bless your family

[@pamelapati1219]

So nice. Happy Birthday Mommy.

[@premika23]

This is so sweet!! Had tears in my eyes at the end 💗💗💗

[@JohannaNorth]

I get emotional watching this too even though i was there for mommy’s little speech! 😭❤️❤️

[@sairamji115]

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANTI JI ....RAM RAM JI

[@poonamgautamscreativity6085]

Johana aap bahut lucky ho aapko bahut achhe father and mother in lows mile or thanks bahan (Vinod ke Mummy Papa) aapke vicharo ne mera dil jit liya 👌👌

[@brilliantbutblue]

Happy Birthday Mummy, your Birthday wish for this year will be coming true very soon and may this happiness continue all year through. 💕

[@SudhishNairS]

The best thing is despite all concerns and what others were pushing her .. 'Mom did not stop Vinod from Marrying' Vinod is blessed to have such caring parents

[@silviemarksilverstein3031]

So lovely Johanna.

[@dsouzadavid80]

I just love vinods parents. So simple. First I used to think, all haryanavi people are feudal orthodox community. Many wishes to mommy.

[@teresabinotto2487]

This is so touching. It makes me very happy to see how lovely and strong your relationship to Mommy is..made me cry🥲 Wish the best for your whole family!

[@JohannaNorth]

You are so sweet, thank you!

[@narasimhankannan708]

I have developed deep respect for your in laws.

[@shivamsshivams2206]

Happy birthday to you from india up

[@JohannaNorth]

Mommy is very grateful 😊🙏

[@ilagarg7974]

@johannanorth Such emotional lines by your mommy❤️ birthday wishes to her...i literally cried watching both of you hugging. May your bonding grows I came upon your channel by chance ladt week...n now iam addicted to you😀...watching almost 10 videos of yours daily...loved your Haryana visit videos...all the innocent loving kids God bless them n your family ❤️ When is the baby coming? Do share the good news ☺️

[@antonylambert5151]

You guys are a happy family we wish her a happy birthday 🎂 heavens bless the entire family kerala india 🇮🇳

[@JohannaNorth]

Mommy is grateful ❤️🙏

[@mech3694]

Great video! johanna! Well the society is crap! Vinods parents are so wise as they did what they felt is right at the moment !🤩🤩😊🙏🙏👍 Everyone in Vinods family is blessed ! And it makes even more beautiful in the presence of Johanna! Happy birthday to vinod's mom! Hope everyone in family live healthier and longer!😊🙏Looking forward to the next amazing vlog soon 🤩😊🙏👍 chalo phir milenge!😁👋🤝

[@JohannaNorth]

Yes I’m very happy that Vinod’s parents werw able to think for themselves and not listen to other people. So now i have the best inlaws in the world ❤️❤️❤️

[@mech3694]

@@JohannaNorth I have the 2 best Finnish KZbinrs so I get to see all ur amazing contents!! 🤩🤩😊🙏🤝

[@indrabachus4674]

This is such a happy time with no regrets .Mom ❤her Bahu very much .One Happy Family. ❤ This video .Keep it up Johanna .Fan from the Western Hemisphere. Trinidad West Indies.

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you so much 🤗

[@soniP0627]

Awwww I got all teary eyed!! Your family is so cute and I am so happy for you. Please continue to share your story and I hope your channel grows too! 😊

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you so much! That is so sweet of you :)

[@robertclark5686]

You are a very good Daughter in law

[@JohannaNorth]

Thank you so much, you're so kind :)

[@mehjabinhussain3016]

Beautiful! Such an awesome family moment!

[@JohannaNorth]

❤️❤️❤️

[@dharkarnamgyal5510]

This couple are in the dept of ocean, every moment create their own paradise

[@fereshtehamrollahi9980]

I came to tears.love you all💖

[@JohannaNorth]

❤️❤️❤️

[@sagarsolanke3309]

Happy Birthday Mumma

[@Kay-cb6hn]

Johanna bless you ..... your such a beautiful your soul 🥰

[@lovely0007able]

Aww so sweet mommy speaks out of hearts 💕💞God bless you all happy wife happy life 😊💖

[@nutcracker5094]

Your in laws are really wonderful, god bless you