Em and I have a friend named Taryn [name not changed to
protect the innocent, because Taryn is wonderful]. A few years ago her
husband hit the ripe old age of 30. Thirty is a significant birthday. It’s
officially the age when you become an adult. I know, 21 is the official
government recognized age of adulthood, but most folks in their 20’s are still
in college, single, and blissfully unaware of coming responsibilities. But
something happens at 30. I can’t really explain it. You feel like it is time to
move into a new phase of your life. To shrug off the things of your youth and step
into the life of adulthood.
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| From comic Poorly Drawn Lines |
Taryn, being a wonderful wife, threw her husband a great 30th
birthday party. She rented out a cozy little place, secretly invited all of his
friends, and whipped up the delicious food for the evening. It was a wonderful
moment for him. Here he is, surrounded by close friends and family
celebrating a significant day in his life.
What does this have to do with spice racks you ask? Stick with me for a few more sentences and all
will become clear.
Last year Emily turned 30. You'd hope that I would have followed in our friend's shoes and properly celebrate Em's day. But I didn't. I dropped the ball. I was the
complete opposite of Taryn. I didn't do anything special. I didn't make a big deal of her big day. In fact, I don’t even think I gave her a gift
until the day after her birthday. And that gift was something I spent 10
minutes on [a quick trip to World Market to pick out a necklace. It was a cool
necklace…but still…] Emily was, how can I put this delicately, none-too-pleased. I mean I blew it. I totally muffed. I was a very bad husband.
Clearly this year I had some making up to do. SIGNIFICANT MAKING
UP. It was the Mount Everest of making up.
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| Everest, smaller than the trouble I caused myself. |
I couldn't erase the disappointment I caused last
year. But I knew if I put some thought, heart, and soul into her birthday this
year, I would be able to at least create a memory that will hopefully be longer
lasting than the sad and disappointing memory I gave her for her 30th
birthday.
To make up for my sad showing I employed a three pronged strategy. Friends, Food, Function. Guys pay
attention.
