The Midlife

So, today is my niece’s 9th birthday. The years have passed like a giver of memories and stealer of time in the best way I can describe. She’s celebrating today at one of those germ-infested and extremely enjoyable jump places that tend to be employed by all teenagers. Days before the event, my sister and I talked about the annual conundrum of whether to give each party attendee a favor: that little bag of useless trinkets parents ultimately end up stepping on or throwing away in a huff of annoyance. Meanwhile, the kids go crazy over a bag of plastic rings, leftover Halloween candy, and stickers featuring everyone’s favorite cartoon characters. After a few shared funny quips with my sister about her options, she agreed quite wisely to forgo the favors in favor of keeping her sanity and a few extra dollars in her pocket. Good choice, Sissy!

The birthday parties of today have become far more sophisticated than the parties of my youth. Do you know where I lost my sh** in birthday heaven bliss? At McDonald’s. Back in the early 80s, you could have your birthday festivities at a sectioned-off area of McDonald’s and play party games and eat Happy Meals, to boot. We dropped straws into a paper cup and called it fun! What?! Yes, do I have stories? Simpler times. We ate cake. We played games. And Ronald McDonald came around to celebrate me being alive another year. I was living my best life indeed.

I wish birthdays were still so celebratory. Not in a bounce-house, laser-tag way, but still with the same level of excitement and joy. Because another year alive and kickin’, is cause for celebration and pure joy.

Happy birthday, J! And many more!

I would love to hear about your favorite birthday memories. Please email me at themidlife2021@gmail.com.