Hard to Handle Birthdays?

[mrs.b]

For no particular reason, my birthday this year was an issue. It's not a big deal, and I know it, but turning 36 meant I could no longer vaguely say I was in my mid-thirties. Which is goofy since I do not think I ever answered that way. Still, for some reason, it bugged me.

Another age-related thing that bugged me is being carded. I have always looked young than my age; my parents used to get kid's menu discounts for me until I was in my late teens, and I used to have to undergo lengthy ID checks when I first turned 21 and went to bars. While I am admitting to a horrible habit, when I buy cigarettes for myself or my boss, I typically get carded. It used to annoy the crud out of me until I turned about 30, but now it gives me a boost when someone checks and then blushes or mumbles an apology. When someone does not, though, it bugs me to no end and I cannot wait to get in the car to check if my makeup or hair or clothes or something else is off. Logically, I know this also makes no sense. I think they card just about everyone these days so I highly doubt it is a sincere thought, but still. It's my weird quirk, and I claim it.