On Half-Birthdays and Other Observances
Today is my half-birthday.
I am 31 1/2 today, half way to 63!
I know, I know. A half-birthday? Seriously? Don't we have enough made-up holidays?
Well, this is different. This is yet another piece of proof that my mother is a genius. Throughout my childhood, we recognized half-birthdays with a card cut in half and singing every other syllable of the birthday song. Seriously. I am sharing my most embarassing traditions here.
But here is the reason my mother is a genius. If you get presents for your birthday, what do you get for your HALF-birthday?
Responsibilities.
I'm not kidding.
I distinctly remember asking my mother if, when I turned 3 1/2, I could put away my OWN laundry AND make my OWN bed. The mind boggles.
Today is also Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent. In previous years, I've given up things (often food indulgences like chocolate or even sugar) for Lent. There is a sort of "trend" these days of taking on a spiritual discipline instead of giving something up. I've tried this in the past, but found it very difficult. But maybe, since today is my half-birthday, I can take on something new today. I'll keep you posted.
UPDATE: My mother just sent me the following email:
HAP... BIRTH... TO...
I am 31 1/2 today, half way to 63!
I know, I know. A half-birthday? Seriously? Don't we have enough made-up holidays?
Well, this is different. This is yet another piece of proof that my mother is a genius. Throughout my childhood, we recognized half-birthdays with a card cut in half and singing every other syllable of the birthday song. Seriously. I am sharing my most embarassing traditions here.
But here is the reason my mother is a genius. If you get presents for your birthday, what do you get for your HALF-birthday?
Responsibilities.
I'm not kidding.
I distinctly remember asking my mother if, when I turned 3 1/2, I could put away my OWN laundry AND make my OWN bed. The mind boggles.
Today is also Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent. In previous years, I've given up things (often food indulgences like chocolate or even sugar) for Lent. There is a sort of "trend" these days of taking on a spiritual discipline instead of giving something up. I've tried this in the past, but found it very difficult. But maybe, since today is my half-birthday, I can take on something new today. I'll keep you posted.
UPDATE: My mother just sent me the following email:
HAP... BIRTH... TO...