I vaguely remember my fifth one,
I remember the pictures
But I  don’t remember those friends
And maybe I don’t have the gifts.

I remember my neighbors birthday,
I think he had just turned six
I kept the stickers from that goody bag,
Just so I wouldn’t forget;
The plastic tables and sugary drinks.

I think when I was eight,
My sister had a fiesta
I walked  up and down the block,
Looking for her friends.
Just to make sure they came.

I remember all of my cousin’s birthdays,
She seems to have a lot;
Of that blue-staining frosting,
And that new toy elation.

Birthdays aren’t always my favorite times.
But they are a celebration,
Of years to come
And the years that have gone.