Something I just don't get...

Why do grown-ups care about their birthdays? Seriously, I'd like someone to explain it to me.

Now, I get kids going crazy about the day.

1. They get toys/etc.
2. They get cake
3. They get to be center of attention
4. Age is pretty much the primary way that people categorize them (like "What do you do for a living?" becomes in your 20's and beyond)

But once you get to, say, 12/13? What's the big deal? There are a couple of ages that are significant, sure. Get to drive--that's a big one. Get to vote/get drafted--like anyone really cares about either any more. And, of course, 21...when you magically become more responsible overnight. But even then--it's the age, not the day.

Yet adults all around me go googily over that day. Most have to make sure everybody knows it's their birthday, just compulsively mentioning it. They'll take the day off work. Buy something for themselves. Get a free meal/dessert at a restaurant. Whatever.

But come on...you're an adult. You can have cake whenever you want to. You can buy trinkets for yourself anytime you go to Wal*Mart. You're supposed to understand that being the center of attention isn't something to shoot for. Seriously, "Oh, everyone celebrate the fact I was born X years ago...make a big deal out of it, because dang it, I'm something to rejoice about."

Don't get me wrong--I'm all for marking anniversaries of accomplishments--marriages, time of service, etc. But your own birth? Seems a bit narcissistic to me. Grow up already.