He's a screaming three and a half year old. We dart after him, delighted. Turtles eating strawberries are new discoveries, seen through older new eyes, taking up hours. Simple toys made 60 years before him gain a new gloss. We are attacked with water and actually like it, just revelling in the bubble of uncontrolled laughter and triumph.

It's my birthday, and everyone has forgotten it. And I don't care.

I have a thought but it hasn't come to life yet. Erin, insent.

for the birthday challenge: My best birthday gift was not the most expensive, or lavish, or even the smutty underwear bought by my first love. In fact the cake was uneven and tilted, though covered with coconut frosting to match its German chocolate heritage. “We made it ourselves,” her daughter said proudly. “The cake, not the gift. Grandma made that.” For once, her words matched her wholesome face and we could all be on a cereal box together, despite not being family at all. The gift, tied with a red ribbon, was an afghan, replacing the one my friend moved to Tucson, a perfect match fot the new colors in my new room. A gift I got because someone listened is the best.

The topic is entertaining, and before we change it I wanted to add something in honor of today's events:

Every baby is born a different way. Sometimes there’s surprise, sometimes there’s worry. There’s always a lot of hard work. It’s stressful, and tiring, and by the end celebrations are quiet, respectful. Praises be for the miracle we have witnessed.

But on this day, we’re doing things our own way. A ripple in the pixels, and suddenly we’re waiting with bated breath. Old friends, new acquaintances, and even some faceless names. We’re taking bets and waiting for spoilers, we’re sending good thoughts and good vibes. The birthday party’s ready to go, now we’re just waiting to see who you’re bringing.

The birthday party’s ready to go, now we’re just waiting to see who you’re bringing.

Beautiful! Love this.

Awesome, Ailleann!

Ailleen! Sniff. You made my allergies act up.

Aww, Cindy. Your post was so adorable, and so very Buffista, that was part of the inspiration.

hands you a kleenex

Aw. That one's a charmer.

Challenge #125 (birthday celebrations) is now closed.

Challenge #126 is muscles.