Since I’m getting my MFA in screenwriting and TV writing, I keep an eye on TV shows and films that are being green lit by studios and networks (meaning they are going into production). Today in the industry publication Variety, I saw that a reality show about 40th birthday parties is heading to series:

“My Fab 40th”
 Produced by Fremantle North America, and developed by Purveyors of Pop, with Thom Beers, Matt Anderson, Nate Green, and Maty Buss serving as executive producers.

Delve into the world of extravagant 40th birthday parties where people put some serious “happy” into a righteous rite of passage. From unlimited budgets to lavish delicacies and over-the-top entertainment, fans will see why turning 40 is such a gift.

I didn’t realize that was even a thing – “the world of extravagant 40th birthday parties.” Maybe I just haven’t been invited to any yet? But I can’t imagine that in seven years I’m going to want to spend a lot of money on a big party. Instead, I can see myself spending money on my kid’s birthday party.

It got me thinking about how my birthday celebrations have changed over the years. In my 20s, I used to have big birthday gatherings at bars. But I always got social anxiety having to entertain all those people and ended up drinking too much to numb the anxiety. I’ve discovered and accepted that I love focusing intently on one person at a time, and so large parties where I play host are mentally exhausting. Naturally, the older I’ve gotten, I like my birthday celebrations small – with family and friends who feel like family. I imagine that my 40th birthday party will be small and celebrated with champagne and cupcakes, and hopefully on the east coast. So while I don’t think I’ll be hosting my own extravagant 40th celebration, I hope I’m invited to one or a few!