The Big 22

Admittedly, every year I almost forget that my birthday is coming up until perhaps the week before. This year was no different. Although, given my long distance relationship, I've known for a while that the weekend following my birthday was reserved for something. And wine tasting it was. Finally after living in wine country for at least a year when I could drink, I'm going tasting. And what better way to make it memorable than bringing along a fair amount of good-hearted people? That's what I thought. 

Maybe its because I've shared a birthday with my sister since I was born, but it's hard to make a big deal out of a day I hardly had control over. "Yay, you were born whether you liked it or not!" Maybe it's the limited power I have in making people do what I want. Like this year, I want my friends to play Shenanigans- a charade-like game that Damon taught me awhile ago. The last time I played must have seriously been a year ago. And why? Because I don't have much power on a normal day. But on my birthday I could get someone to stand on their head and whistle the Star Spangled Banner. It's my birthday, who could refuse? 

Whatever the reason for birthday celebrations, I simply like the extra attention from my friends. It's not really the presents, because I forget who gave me what about two weeks later anyway. It's the fact that people will go out of their way for you. On my 19th birthday, Lisa baked me a cake when she barely knew me. My aunt came to a surprise birthday party for me. Mrs. Lichtman is driving up today to take us to lunch. Frau sent me a card. Small gestures that people extend on my birthday are the things I like best. 

I can't tell you how excited I am to see a big group of my friend again this Friday and Saturday.