I turned 50 in September and my husband did in June. Our friends planted flamingos in our yard- I think as a sign we are closer to retirement, It was quite fun. Another thing that I have done for birthdays is e-mail all our relatives and friends and have them send a b-day card. My husband is a fireman and I teach CPR to the firemen, a few years ago when my sister turned 40 I had the firemen sign a card and send it to her, well for my 50th the firemen signed all kinds of cards, x-mas, get well, b-day, retirement and sympathy cards and sent them to me. I had one from the Pope, from the President of US, from our governer and lots of other celebrities. It was a blast.
A lap quilt with just blocks made from dark flannels is a very nice personal gift. Have fun whatever you do.