29 for the first time

There are a few phrases that I (and my siblings) use that have histories and are hilarious to me (and my siblings) but not necessarily others. One of them is the phrase, "Hi it's my birthday hi."

Hi it's my birthday hi History: This comes from a story told by an old friend, Michael, who told us about this guy that would frequent a local (my hometown) watering hole and, in an effort to score free drinks from other patrons, would approach people with the phrase, "Hi, it's my birthday, hi."

Hi it's my birthday hi Realization: Uh, where did my twenties go? Oh yes, into those other people. Good investment, say I. Good investment.

Hi it's my birthday hi Gift: Here. I'll give you a good recipe. It's pretty, and yummy, and even vegetarian.

Greek Pasta with Tomatoes and White Beans

~2 (14.5 oz.) cans diced tomatoes with basil, garlic, and oregano
~1 (19 oz.) can cannellini beans or other white beans, rinsed and drained
~1 (9-10 oz.) bag fresh, chopped (about 8 cups) Spinach
~4 cups hot cooked penne (about 1/2 lb. uncooked tubular-shaped pasta)
~1/2 cup (2 oz.) finely crumbled feta cheese

Combine tomatoes and beans in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat; bring to boil. Reduce heat; Simmer 10 minutes. Add spinach; cook 2 minutes or until spinach wilts, stirring occasionally. Place 1 cup pasta on each of four plates; top each serving with 1 1/4 cup sauce and 2 tablespoons cheese.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 474 (12 % from fat)
Chol: 13 mg.
Sodium: 1553 mg.

Hi it's my birthday hi Revelation: The term "Spring Break" is French (or something) for, "Okay, Parents, this is just a practice run. Get ready because summer is coming and you need to be more on the ball to keep the kids busy and happy."

Hi it's my birthday hi Wish: That guitar. And World Peace.