Birthdays growing up weren’t much—no presents, no parties, and since mine is in December, one gift had to cover Christmas, my birthday, and Three Kings’ Day. Kid me accepted it, but deep down, I wanted toys, new clothes, and a puppy. Adult me now laughs because I couldn’t have taken care of a puppy anyway—I was too busy playing basketball and riding my rollerblades all the time.

The best part of my birthdays was Baskin Robbins with my dad. That one ice cream made me feel special, even if I had to wait a whole year for the next. Growing up with little taught me to appreciate everything. Adult me enjoys good food and cake, and even if I regret the extra pounds in January, I savor every moment.

Lighting my candles today is a little healing ritual, honoring the kid who just wanted a cake and a song. Now, I make sure my loved ones feel special too. Cake, laughter, a little spoiling—that’s how memories are made. And yes, adult me negotiates fair slices, while kid me dreams of sneaking the biggest one.