Geri’s birthday was this week. Most of us celebrate with the usual festive party of balloons, cake, gifts, and singing. And we’re no different; we plan on presents, food, and fun (but no singing) for Geri’s celebration.

Our traditions surrounding birthdays and celebrations have been handed down from one generation to the next. Those traditions are getting bigger with every generation. I don’t think that our great-grandparents could have ever imagined what a birthday celebration today looks like. Think about the parties, the presents, the food, the gift bags–when did we decide that bigger and more expensive is better?