Ever since I have moved to the quaint and friendly town of Los Angeles a year ago, I have been to more birthday parties than ever before.

Hey everyone "Julie" is having a birthday, we are all meeting at the $75 a plate restaurant and we're bringing gifts??? What, is she Jesus?

Surprise parties, going away parties and flat out ~ hey it's my birthday, spend your money on me parties.

Why do people feel the need to let everyone know it's their birthday. The operative word is, "Everyone." Are you still 8 years old and your mom has to round up as many people as she can just to make you feel special. "Look Julie, Look how many people showed up. You win."

By the time you reach a certain age, you hopefully understand and accept the fact that you don't have many true friends. You may think you do, but guaranteed you only have as many friends as you you do fingers on one hand. If you're a Leper, you're pretty lonely.

So why all the commotion? Why make everyone feel obligated to show up, spend a $100 bucks on someone who doesn't even know my middle name?

Why feel obligated, if you are the only one in your circle of "friends" who doesn't go, well pretty soon you'll be the leper.