I, a woman who is 41 years and one day old, am writing to you with a confession: I still struggle with the birthday blues.
For me, they look a lot like the grief that creeps in ahead of a death anniversary or the emotional upheaval before my period. I get moody and introspective — pretty low, at times — questioning all the big things in life.
Then, the day arrives and… I’m fine! What was I so upset about, anyway? I’m blessed. Lucky to be alive.
Maybe one day I’ll figure out how to be a more even-keeled, less sensitive soul. Until then, this newsletter continues to earn its name.
April was a rollercoaster — one that started on a steady climb, dropped sharply in the middle, and ended with laughs and cheers. Now I’m 41 and feeling good. Honestly? I’d get back in line and ride it again.
After all, a rollercoaster without a little oh shit moment isn’t much of a ride.
But we’re here for the high points! At least when it comes to a glimmers post like this one. Fortunately, there were plenty this month.
Let’s get to it.
✨ The calm after the chaos
My younger brother, Rory, shares a birthday month with me. He turned 38 on April 4, which also happened to be the day of his neighborhood’s Easter egg hunt. A few friends and family members — including my five-year-old and Rory’s two-year-old — gathered together to walk to the park where the madness would soon descend.
Have you been to a community egg hunt recently? Or remember them from your childhood? It’s chaos: kids hustling and shouting, grabbing as many plastic eggs as they can for a few frenzied minutes. Then it’s over. It takes no time at all. Not exactly an ideal setup for a birthday party (especially for a grown-up).