Birthdays

Which do you remember? I remember my tenth, because it was the first time I got to invite a friend to a party. My sister got to invite a friend, also. This tradition of sharing everything was inaugurated early on. When it was my birthday, my sister got the same gift. When it was hers three months later, I got the same gift! So having a party just for me obviously entailed a friend for her. And….I still felt special.

Where is this leading? Today is my Mom’s birthday, and I remember the day we celebrated her turning 30. I can place myself in my aunt and uncles’ home. I remember where I was in the kitchen singing, “Happy Birthday to you!” (By the oven.) I was happy that day. My mom was special. She was old. I was her daughter so that made me special, obviously! Almost fifty years later I have that vivid memory.

Thanks, Mom!