I Have Shoes Older Than You

I notoriously hate birthdays. Not because it makes me a year older, but because the day is usually a disappointment. You know that song, I’ll cry if I want to? That’s me. I put too much pressure on the day to be perfect and enviably something goes wrong.

This year I decided to shake things up. I took the day off work. Then I took successful elements from other birthdays. Throw in the mom and throw out the schedule. Golden. We started the day off at my favourite diner (25th), where I had an amazing mimosa with cinnamon swirl French toast. Then we drove down to Illinois for ice skating (10th) and shopping. I skipped cake and had a giant bag of bulk candy (6th). Then I had dinner at Applebee’s (16th).

Even though I was sleep deprived, ate candy until I felt sick, and failed at shopping, it was an amazing birthday. Why? No expectations. I went with the flow, did things I enjoyed, and rocked out as a grownup and a little kid. After 27 years, I learned that birthdays can be fun. Wacky.

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Once You Grow, You Can't Stop

If you’ve ever gone out to eat with me, you know that I’m not an experimental eater. I tell people that I’m not picky; I’m specific. I know what I like and don’t like to be surprised when it comes to food. My sister likes to tease me; I can go to any restaurant and find a chicken or steak dish (a good restaurant is one that has multiple chicken options).

I’m not sure when the change happened. In the last few months I’ve tried everything from ahi tuna to zucchini. What’s crazier is I’ve been cooking at home. I’ve never liked cooking; it pales in comparison to baking.

The funny thing is, once you start branching out in one place, you start branching out in other places. I’m doing something different for my birthday this year. This week we’re hosting our first game night. I have good intentions on trying yoga in the near future. I even decided it was time to give marriage a try. Heck, at this rate, I might even get on a roller coaster.

Two thousand and ten, you're one crazy year.

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The More You Know

Things I learned this weekend: I still enjoy a good hockey game. You can force people to come out, but you can’t force them to stay out. When taking shots, it’s best to spread them out over time. Free wifi at bars is dangerous. No matter what excuse you have, you'll feel guilty for skipping family functions. MechWarriors is not a 15-minute thing. Motion sickness sucks, especially when there's no motion. Ice cream cone cupcakes baffle people. Walgreens sells eggs (but keeps them hidden). You can take on the Easter bunny and win. People are genuinely happy when you mention it’s your birthday. Gifts are nice but phone calls are nicer. Sometimes all you need is your best friend.

This weekend was my birthday (and something called Easter). I broke from tradition and mixed it up. It was simple but truly enjoyable. Maybe next year, to quote my sister-in-law, I won't "drink my face off". Honestly, it's something you could never plan. Thanks to everyone who made it a success (or bared witness)!

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