House Buy / Birthday

Turned 51 the other day.  Not a few remembered.  Interesting to get a card from the wife, but she purchases very expensive jewelry and then tells me this can be her present for her birthday.  Would have like to get something more than a card.  I do not wish to ask as that would seem petty to me.  Just depressing.  I knew this happens year after year.

Buying a house.  Looked for three days and found that I am trying to get under contract.  Another offer is out there but I put in an updated escalation clause.  Basically, whatever you offer, I'll beat it a certain amount.  Hope I win.   I'm tired of living in a hotel - since April.