But once we reach adulthood, past the sweet 16, the wild 18th and perhaps even the bougie 30th, the magic ... look at a festive birthday as a built-in, guaranteed party. Whether it’s at home ...

and with my 40th birthday looming, there will be no holding back. “What would you like to do for your 40th?” my husband asked me recently. “Dinner out with friends? A night away? A party?” ...