"We wish you a merry Christmas," sang my cell phone. It was 7:58 a.m. June 26, 2000, and my mom was fulfilling her promise of being the first to wish me a happy birthday. Sixteen years ago today I was born.
   Although I had been out of town on my birthday in the past, my 16th birthday was unique for many reasons. For starters I was attending a journalism camp at the University of Florida, the school I hope to attend for college. Little did I know 17 would follow a similar pattern. But let's take things one year at a time.
   Even getting dressed on my 16th was special as I found pearl earrings and a matching necklace in my suitcase.
   I hurried off to class, running late as usual. When I arrived, my teachers and class surprised me by remembering the occasion and singing "Happy Birthday" to me.
   Because my experiences were centered around UF, the college I am most likely to attend, my day continued to be unique. I was able to go shopping at the HUB and buy myself a smoothie at the Reitz Union. As a lifelong Gator fan, I take advantage of every opportunity I am given to obtain more official Gator paraphernalia. I had previously visited UF three times but had never been to the HUB, so that was a memorable experience in itself. During one of those previous visits, I discovered the smoothie shop in the Union decided that I would treat myself to my own birthday gift.
   When I arrived in my dorm, I found my suitemates scheming to order me a pizza in celebration of my birthday. We finally decided that Pizza Hut stuffed crust cheese pizza and Cokes would be my birthday meal. I must say that I have never eaten Pizza Hut in place of cake on my birthday.
   All in all it was an exceptional day because I realized more about the campus -- its size, food and programs. Although I missed my family and friends I was able to share this once-in-a-lifetime experience with my newfound friends from camp.

   7:58 a.m. on June 26, 2001: Instant replay.
   Exactly one year later I am once again at UF. This time I am celebrating my 17th birthday.
   The highlight of my day was getting a cupcake and presents from the RAs. We had been waiting to watch "Save the Last Dance" in Gannett Auditorium when they called me up to the stage and presented me with a birthday crown, wand and three gifts. Also my friend Gail called me, and I was able to speak with her.
   My day was filled with familiar occurrences, too: my cell phone serving as the harbinger of my Mom's birthday wishes; finding presents like a shirt, perfume, and body lotion in my suitcase; and having pizza -- only this time it is an SJI pizza and movie party.
   Yet my day included new experiences as well. This year's roommates continued the tradition of surprising me by giving me a balloon. I still explored campus, but it was not a journey to seek out smoothies. All of the smoothie shops were closed and therefore left me empty handed. However I was able to investigate the activities of the O'Connell Center and become acquainted with some people from my hometown.
   Spending my birthdays at UF was fun and interesting because I got two chances to try something new. I was surrounded by friends, although not the ones I would have expected. It was a unique experience I will never forget. I will always appreciate the kindness of those around me.