It wouldn't kill you to call and wish him a happy birthday. If you can;t talk to him send a card or something. This fight will end, don't chase him, but honor the occasions. No presents ( causes guilt and expectations)

I wouldn't call him. Whatever it is, I'm on your side lonelygal.

In fact, I got a better idea. Take a picture of you with some good looking guy and send it to him. Put "Happy Birthday" from lonelygal and ____.

haha, that should do it.

Confusedwpg : I did send him a text 'Happy Birthday' on your advice and that of a common friend. He responded with a thanks .. and then that's it.

I know what you mean, my stbx used to say that I was the only one whom he had enjoyed celebrating his birthday with...but, we are not part of our exes' lives now in the same way, and that is very difficult to accept. You acknowedged his birthday in in a text, as felt right to you to do--but his response seems to indicate he is keeping a polite distance. I would encourage you to focus on yourself today as much as possible, make this day the best you can for yourself, try not to focus your thoughts on him if possible. ((((hugs)))

he pinged me after that and seemed as if he really missed what I did for him. I did not encourage the conversation much like my dad would say
---- "no sense in asking for directions to a place you are not going to"

Good for you for not encouraging things; not to sound harsh, but one of the consequences of his choice to end things the relationship, is that he no longer has you in his life to celebrate with him and make him feel special--and that's for him to deal with. I love that saying from your Dad--that's great! :-) I am going to remember that one for myself.

Hope it felt good to send the text. Congrats.

Proud of you. Most cannot contact without healthy boundaries.
You are getting there girl.

I agree with Metta... good for you. And I like your Dad's saying. Never heard it before, but it so fits things, doesn't it? If you don't mind I'll borrow it, too.
So hard, but you're doing so well, gal... (((HUGS)))

Thank you all my friends.

I think communicating with all of you gives me strength and perspective on things.