Reflections on a birthday in the Facebook age

I do remember birthdays from 10 years ago … generally quiet, with a small family celebration (a meal out, a cake with candles), a few cards (homemade by my daugher, niece and nephew), a few small gifts.

Yesterday was my birthday, and I received  bevy of messages via phone, email, text, and on Facebook – some from friends I haven’t seen since we graduated high school umpteen million years ago. I mentioned the messages I was receiving and a friend commented, “yeah, but it’s just on Facebook, they get a reminder that it’s your birthday.”

So what? I have to say, it’s delightful to get those messages from cousins far away, and old friends across the ocean. And I also delight in sending my own greetings when I notice the tiny gift box icon appear on my own Facebook page.

And how did I celebrate the day? I took off work (first time I’ve ever done that), spent it eating out and strolling the city with my husband, received a few cards and a few small gifts … punctuated by lots of messages from Facebook friends wishing me well. You know, there is nothing wrong with that.

And, from the random thought department, I close with a sentiment written many decades ago – that got my husband’s college roommate a job at Hallmark:

Violets are blue
Roses are red
Another year older
At least you’re not dead