I almost did not celebrate my own birthday last year. Not because I was sad. Not because I was alone. Because somewhere along the way I had quietly decided that making a fuss about my own birthday was something other people did — people who were more comfortable with being seen, more comfortable with asking … Read more
My uncle has everything. I mean that literally. He has the watch he wanted. He has the car he saved for. His house is exactly how he likes it. His wardrobe is full. His kitchen has every gadget known to mankind. He reads but already owns the books he wants. He travels but plans his … Read more
“She knows.” That was the text I received from my cousin three hours before we were supposed to surprise his wife on her fortieth birthday. Forty people. Catered food. A venue booked two months in advance. A slideshow with photos going back to her childhood. She knew. Not because of the venue. Not because of … Read more