Re: Does it bother you when nobody remembers your B-day?

As you get older that is how it is. I think birthdays are really for kids and even though I enjoy to get gifts (mine is next week!), no one really remembers and that is fine.

Re: Does it bother you when nobody remembers your B-day?

Posted by nov04libride

Posted by Kara

No. Not at all. The only people who HAVE to remembet are FH and my parents. It's nice when my brothers remember and call, too.

My one SIL throws a hissy fit if someone doesn't call her on her birthday. It was the day of my practice bar exam one year and my brother called to YELL at me because I didn't call her. (Note, I'd never called - ever - on her birthday before, and they've been together 15 years, and I was needless to say a little preoccupied) This year, I was in China on a business trip and got yelled at again by my brother for not calling. Sorry, I was 13 hours ahead, on the other side of the world, working 16-18 hours a day seven days a week with wicked jet lag. What a beyotch I am. (Mind you, I called her before I left to say happy bday since I'd be away that day) And both years I sent a card.

I find people who get *that* upset about birthdays to be a little immature. This woman is 38 years old - it's not like I missed her sweet 16. She actually makes my brother call anyone in the family who forgets. C'mon. My cousin's don't have to call my brother's wife on her birthday... JMHO.

My advice to people who get upset if someone forgets your birthday is to find a way to remind them about it beforehand. If you want people to acknowledge it, remind them a little bit beforehand. Not all of us are great with dates - and not everyone thinks a friend's birthday is a national holiday.

Or, have some sort of celebration - invite people to go out for dinner or for drinks to celebrate it.

I think your SIL takes it WAAYYYYYY too hard, and expects way too much, but I would be hurt if a close friend or relative did not acknowledge my bday in any way. My father has forgotten several times and it's hurtful. I always make a point of remembering his, and I'm not saying that I expect extravagent gifts, but I have a small family and a small group of friends and I don't think it's too much to ask them to send a card, email, or to call.