Birthdays

     We seem to like to drag out birthdays around here. Why not right? There's only one day a year when it's perfectly appropriate to celebrate you. Why not make it last as long as possible? My husband used to think I was crazy when I'd say things like "well, it's my birthday weekend," so he couldn't do what he wanted and had to do what I wanted. That was reason enough. He'd tell me how I was the only person he knew who got a birthday weekend. Of course I'd say that was course not true. Now seeing Facebook posts I know I'm definitely not the only one celebrating a birthday weekend. What does it matter if my birthday was on a Wednesday. I'm still getting a birthday weekend. With school and work what do you really get to do on a Wednesday anyway?
     I think my husband has finally gotten used to my meaning for birthdays. Especially when it works for him, and we had things like a suprise party in a suite at old Yankee Stadium with a tour before it was gone. Yes he went way above and beyond with the two surprise parties for me this year. That is something I will never forget and my kids, and maybe even my friends, won't ever forget. Maybe it'll even rub off a little. Sort of that pay it forward deal. It's fun to celebrate the ones you love. Why not make birthdays a big thing?
     Today we are continuing my sons' 16th birthdays. Of course with two birthdays it may have to extend even longer. We started early as their birthday always falls around labor day and the first day of school so we have to plan well. I also have to share it with their father. He had them on the actual day this year so I did what I could before and after. I also sometimes feel I need to make up for him and the whole first day of school thing.
     Each of my sons got a cake and sung to the night before their actual birthday with extended family around. Emily, Jake, and I also filled their rooms with balloons to surprise them. On their birthday they got presents from us before their father picked them up. While with him they didn't get a cake, forget about singing, or a present, not even a card. This is amazing and depressing to me at the same time. "How could you, your mother, and your brother not even get them a birthday card?" I've wanted to scream at him and on some occassions have. I know it's not worth it anymore. I've gotten used to it and have come to expect it. I think the boys are finally seeing the two sides a little better now. Especially when one said they'd rather have stayed home.
      They are only any age ONE time. You are only any age ONE time. Make the most of it. Celebrate it. Enjoy every damn minute of it! I don't care how old you are or what's wrong with you. In the scheme of things we are here and gone in the blink of an eye. Yeah, who really wants to think about that? I know but it's true. Any one of us could be gone tomorrow. Did you celebrate the ones you love today? On their birthday? Any time recently, so they remember and you remember how special we all are.
     Today we are going to lunch. It is Andrews turn to pick his special birthday meal place. Then we are taking them to fly trapeze. A class for about two hours in Rockville Center teaches them and lets them fly. As it gets closer I'm getting more nervous about it. These are my babies who'll be flying around like circus performers. I have to admit I found the article in the paper and suggested it to them. It will be an exciting birthday gift. And maybe a bit scary but one I don't think they or I will soon forget. I think it's a good way to celebrate 16 year old boys who don't get to be "Sweet 16" like us girls do.