Today Is [_________]

Yes, it's Mother's Day, but there's something else that comes around annually that people aren't universally forced to celebrate...

I am officially 26. Shock and horror.

Before I rant about the whole getting older thing, I have to take a moment to thank all of the people who made an effort to recognize this occasion. I really wasn't expecting anything at all, especially since previous years have gone by without much ado. You guys truly are great friends.

Friday, Alina made a strawberry cheesecake from scratch and brought it to work. It's what she's famous for - I think her secret ingredient is crack, because everyone who has had a piece is addicted to it.

Saturday, Sandhya's friend Sarah had her jewelry collection debut. Very impressive. Made me realize that jewelry making is truly just a hobby for me. I would never have the guts to follow through with the whole business plan, applying for tax status, business cards and all that stuff. Anyways, Sandhya bought me a necklace and earrings that I was eyeing the whole time.

Saturday night, I really wanted to go dancing, but it's always difficult to round up a group for that. Besides, game 7 of the Rockets vs. the Mavericks was on and EVERYBODY was watching. After calling everyone I know in Houston, it was very clear that I was not going to be able to convince anyone to go out... not even my own brother. I was pretty close to giving up on the whole idea all together. At one point, I said, "Man... the only way that anyone would be willing to go out dancing with me tonight is if the Rockets are losing by some ridiculous amount like 40 points." Apparently, the Rockets misinterpreted my comment as a birthday wish and ended the game exactly at an embarrassing 76-116. I should learn to use my powers for good...

Let's cut to the dancing. So, I was able to guilt the nice people into going out with me... those who weren't drinking away their sorrows at sports bars or in their pajamas already. That would be Alina, Max, and Oliver. We went to Asian Central (aka Licor Lounge) at Gloria's suggestion. The music wasn't bad, so at least we got a little ass shakin' in. That's all that matters right?

Today, the official day, Sandhya took me out for Brunch at Barnaby's (mmm... Bob's Healthy Plate). I think that officially ends the festivities.

Quick shout out to my peeps Chirag and Simone for the card and the call, respectively. Being organized enough to remember a birthday, especially the day of, is a rare talent.

So let's discuss this whole aging thing. I refuse to do it. I've gone along with this process so far without protest. No more. I think aging should be merit based. If you haven't accomplished anything, you don't get to the next level. It's like school... if you don't pass, they hold you back (Alright! Fifth grade again!). I don't think it's fair that I haven't done much since college... yet I've aged 4 years! Give me the 26 when I get to be more than just the lowest level peon at work... or when I fall into that trap called marriage. Otherwise, no thank you. There are no benefits attached with the number 26. You're just older. Period.

Sigh.

It's not like I'm really upset about this whole birthday thing. It's just another day. I am still extremely fortunate, and it's still possible that the best is yet to come. Besides, I have plenty of strawberry cream pie in the fridge to console me if that's not the case.