My birthday was last month. I subscribe to the theory that once you hit 40 you can go back in time with your age so I am now officially 36. Don't get me wrong, I am having a blast in my 40something age bracket, I just like the look of numbers in their 30s. I will stop at 35 because I think younger than that isn't very interesting. You haven't really seasoned yourself enough and are just starting to hit your stride at 35 and beyond. Kind of like chile, take it off the stove too soon and it just isn't right, let it simmer and steep and you have one hell of a main dish.

The actual day is always bittersweet for me as I have lots of friends and family who wish me well, send a card or present, or my adorable children make me a card that I will keep for a lifetime. But for reasons unbeknowngst to me, my dear husband refuses to even acknowledge the day with a "happy birthday to you" greeting.

It has been this way for about three or more years.

I have told him how hurtful it is to me that this odd passive-aggressive behavior is observed every single year. But nothing changes. Christmas isn't much different either. If I didn't select it and put it on hold for him to pick up and pay for, I doubt I would get anything then either.

So for days after, I feel like shit. I am sad and angry and worn out by the end of each day.

It has the makings of a divorce my darling, the makings of a divorce . . .