It’s my birthday this month. Around this time of year, my birthday present ends up doubling as a Christmas present because I’ve “just gotten a birthday gift.”

This is Joe. My younger brother was born in December, and I seem to remember him making complaints similar to yours. I’m not entirely sure, but I think those complaints only lasted until he was in eighth grade. Wait—are you in eighth grade, by any chance? Surely not. It’s just too sad to think that someone old enough to know better would post in a question box simply because it’s free. That said, combining a November(?) birthday present with a Christmas present does feel like it ought to be against the law. I’m not sure which law would apply, though. If you’re planning to meet that day, you’d want to receive your birthday present on the day itself. Even Joe, who’s pretty clueless about women’s feelings, understands that much. However, in your papa’s defense, if he’s married, keeping a present hidden until the right time may not be all that easy. Your papa seems to be the type to lump your birthday and Christmas presents together and send you plunging into the depths of despair, so try saying, “Please give me my birthday present on my birthday, okay? Mwah.” Let’s look forward to your birthday next year.