My 56th birthday was this past weekend.
My daughter and her hubby visited here with two twins, not because of my b'day, but because my daughter had her high school reunion. I was so happy to have them here, giving her $100 up front to go buy groceries and such, as well as to cover cost of travel, etc. Then, when they got ready to leave on Sunday, I took them out to dinner at Olive Garden and enjoyed it immensely. No mention was made of my birthday, nor present, etc., but I don't mind that, just happy to see them all.
At school, two female teachers expressed aghast horror and indignation when they asked me if I was taken out to dinner, and I said, "NO, I paid for it." Also no presents.
I grew up receiving no acknowledgment of my birthday, and expect none. I was just happy to have the time with my daughter and twin grandsons.
They both said they would be angry and hurt. What's the point, I wonder, harboring resentment.
I did always celebrate my daughter's birthday while she was growing up, unlike what I didn't have, but I still don't expect anything.
Should I feel anger and resentment. I don't.
Patty