Nurturing my inner... birthday girl

14, 41, 84.  Doesn't really matter what age you are.  Your birthday is really a day for people to celebrate the gift that is you.  I've not been one to think the day I popped out and onto the scene was really all that amazing, nor worthy of a big deal, but I've taken some lessons from some of my friends who adore their birthdays and party with the lovely grace of a dignitary at a black tie ball.  It's your day - so heck, let people enjoy it by enjoying you!  If that means you get cake, then so be it.  (If you get three cakes, even better!)

Hazelnut pyramid, pear tart, chocolate mouse from EVO Bistro, McLean, VA

My actual birthday was last week, but once you're over 30, your friends start to get married and have families and a week night isn't always that convenient to round up your girls and go out.  So I decided this year the festivities would be done in smaller, more intimate installments.  (This is following suit because a good friend of mine just had a birthday last month and I managed to celebrate her several times!  I called the last outing, "Your birthday: The fourth and final installment.")  I dubbed this outing for me, "Celebrating my birthday: Team 2.")  Years ago I would have felt weird with people feeling the need to rouse up the bally ho so much and tried to get out of it, but I have learned to ease up and graciously receive.  I can do that comfortably knowing that I always celebrate my friends with fervor when it's their turn.  So once a year, oh yes you guessed it, it is all about me!

I know, it's definitely best to give.  No doubt.  I admire generous people and try to model myself after them as best I can.  To push myself to give sacrificially.  But it's also okay to receive as well.  Doesn't make you selfish or shallow to not be the wall flower sometimes.  In actuality, it gives others the opportunity to stretch themselves a little too.  (Honestly, how much suffering could my friends have done while sharing these desserts with me!)

Jill, Megan, me, Jordan

Graciously be the princess of the party... for just one day a year.  You are special!  Wear a tiara for 24 hours.  Even go to bed with it on if you want.  Just remember to take it off the next morning when you return back to your normal unbirthday self.