I was hoping that I would get a happy birthday present from my orthodontist today with the news that my braces are ready to come off. I have been asking if they are ready to come off since (roughly) the day I got them on. That day was one year and seven days ago. My teeth look totally straight to my uninformed eyes. My orthodontist feels otherwise and points out various subtle flaws and irregularities, some of which are taking place below the surface. He thinks they will be ready to come off by the end of the year. That is like an eternity away for a baby such as myself. Of course, I understand that if I want this investment to be worthwhile I can't rush it, but I am tired of people mistaking me for an undergrad when I am at work, or worse, my boss's daughter when I am traveling. Okay, I am done whining. I know I am a lucky, lucky girl.