Happy Birthday to me, Happy Birthday to me! Yes, it’s that time of year again. Although it would seem that I should be mature and respectable in my old age, I’m not about to give up my birthday party. I decided to do a bit of research to learn more about one important aspect, the cake, expecting to find tips about cutting and serving and what type to bake your loved one. But wouldn’t you know, the first thing I came across was the following from party-pooper author Sophie Hadida. It’s from her Manners for Millions. I sure am glad my mom never read this book!
1950: The Birthday Cake
Breezes and Showers. ‘Now it’s time to eat the birthday cake. Let’s all blow out the candles.’ Blow! Blow! Blow! They’re all out, and so are the germs from all the guests ~ out traveling on the cake. Whoever originated this joyous birthday sport ~ well, never mind him; but don’t let’s do it any more.
This act, you can see the moment it is brought to your attention, is a vile one. It is amazing that you mothers have for years been permitting the guests of your children to put out candles on birthday cakes in this unhealthful manner.
From now on supply yourself with a snuffer. Allow each child to take it in his own hands and put out one light. That will give as much pleasure and will not endanger the health of anyone.
I hear you say, ‘Strange! I never thought of that before.’
Source: Hadida, Sophie C. Manners for Millions. New York: Permabooks, 1950.
~ pp. 54-55 ~