I love birthdays. Not just for kids. But for people at every age. If you're one of those people who don't want to celebrate it, that's okay too. But I still like to celebrate them. Round numbers, odd numbers, even numbers, it just doesn't matter to me.

So when a friend suggested that I start doing smash cakes for older people (meaning 30 year olds -- and probably 30 year olds with alcohol), I put out the call for someone with a birthday coming up. I figured the first one to respond would get the session.

I got way more than I bargained for. I met a woman who gave me the biggest smile her family had ever seen. I met a woman with a wonderful story. I heard stories of dating, war time relationships, family and strength. Admittedly, she didn't quite hear the scoop about what we were doing until I sat her down at the kids' tea party table with a crown and a cake, but she was completely game. And after an exploratory dip into the frosting with a finger, I pulled out little old fashioned wooden spoons and the family joined her for birthday cake.