Originally Posted by Kfamr
YOU are the ONLY one that can set your mood!
If you're going to be down in the dumps about your birthday than no one else can change that. You are very lucky to have the pets you do and a mother that loves you - even if she doesn't always agree with you. I'm assuming the present a month after your birthday is the VERY expensive camera... that's something to be happy about and look forward to! Especially since your mother is working hard for it. You are alive and well - with a roof over your head, right? That's something to celebrate tomorrow!
Who says you need a cake for your birthday? I don't remember the last time I've had a birthday cake.
I feel awfully bad for your mother.. I'm sure she is trying her hardest to make you happy.