DEAR ABBY: Over the years I have been the organizer who has hosted multiple parties for friends and family. When someone is having a milestone birthday or other event, I am always the one who plans a celebration to make it a memorable occasion. This requires effort, but I love seeing the joy people get from these events.
I will be turning 50 soon. Just once, I would like to be the recipient of a party. I know it's unlikely that my friends will throw a surprise birthday party for me. Or if they do, it will be something small and last-minute.
I am beginning to dread my birthday because I feel my resentment building. Should I plan my own party or just hope for the best and see what happens? Any other suggestions? -- ALWAYS THE HOSTESS, NEVER THE PARTY GIRL
DEAR ALWAYS THE HOSTESS: The surest way to get the message across is to communicate it to some of your closest friends. And if none of them volunteer to host a party for you, then either plan your own -- or arrange to spend the money you would have spent on the party treating yourself to a day of pampering at a spa or a short vacation. You deserve it.