Forget the birthday candles — Sarah Steelman‘s kids want friends to celebrate their mom’s birthday with a special campaign season gift.

Steelman turns 50 today, her three sons tell us in an e-mail sent from the campaign.

“Please join us today in wishing her a happy birthday,” reads a note from sons Sam, Joe and Michael.

And how should we do that?

“A contribution of $25, $50, or $100,” will suffice, the Steelman kids write.

Steelman, seeking the GOP nomination for governor, is older than her party rival, but just by a hair - Kenny Hulshof turns 50 himself on May 22.

The Steelman kids — Sam, Joe and Michael — wish mom a happy 50th