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Grown-up birthdays: the thrill is gone
OMG!!! TODAY IS MY BIRTHDAY!!!:)
That's how I would write it if I were still a teen. But as an adult, I have to write it like this: Today is my birthday.
Because even though I still get that tremendous thrill of anticipation as the day approaches, I always end up unsatisfied.
The day never lives up to the expectation created in me as a kid and maintained into adulthood. I go to work. I drive the kids around town after school. I am not the center of attention, as my kids are when it's their big day.
Some adults make sure everyone knows it's their birthday, but to me, that always seems like a pathetic cry for attention. I live at the other extreme, where I tell few people and end up disappointed.
Do your birthdays live up to your expectations?
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Comments
Hi Lois:
I anm a lot like you in that I generally keep my birthday to myself. I celebrate with my wife and children, and usually ask that they keep the fanfare to a minimum. A nice present for me is just for the four of us to got out to dinner at a restaurant that is better than what we can usually afford. For me, that's the perfect present, to spend time with my family. And I am never disappointed. As far as work goes, I like to keep it as just another day at the office.
Posted by: John D | April 30, 2008 10:46 AM
Hi Lois:
I anm a lot like you in that I generally keep my birthday to myself. I celebrate with my wife and children, and usually ask that they keep the fanfare to a minimum. A nice present for me is just for the four of us to got out to dinner at a restaurant that is better than what we can usually afford. For me, that's the perfect present, to spend time with my family. And I am never disappointed. As far as work goes, I like to keep it as just another day at the office.
Posted by: John D | April 30, 2008 10:47 AM
I'm with John D. We save our big celebrations for our wedding anniversary - now that's something to get excited about, and it's not all about ME, it's all about US.
Posted by: Jeff | April 30, 2008 11:13 AM
Birthdays are great through about age 21, and maybe that first birthday you celebrate with your spouse, your own kids, and a few milestones along the way. Happy 36th birthday? OK, it doesn't really deserve a big celebration. 40, 50, 60, sure -- throw a party. But as long as your family and friends remember the day always, it's all good. I personally like to treat myself by not working, and making sure to break the routine with something fun. It helps me observe the occasion and be thankful for another year. If I had any suggestion Lois, it's that next April 30, arrange to mix it up a little. Stay out of the office, have lunch at a restaurant along the water, toast your terrific life, smile -- and let loved ones celebrate (at least a little) the great person you are. Best wishes.
Posted by: Marc | April 30, 2008 11:24 PM