By Alex Gonzalez

While Chris Brown's ex-girlfriend Rihanna was out on the streets of New York City, wearing funky outfits, jumping up on stage with Kanye West singing with him, and pretty much being the center of attention at a party filled with celebrities, Chris Brown was, well... home.  Chris Brown turned 20 years old yesterday, and instead of having some big birthday bash with celebrities everywhere and some giant birthday cake that was probably made to look like him, he celebrated how most others usually do: low-key, at home in Virginia, and with his close family and friends. 

I'm sure this might not have been the big bash Chris Brown might have had in mind at the beginning of the year, but it shows people what a difference a few months can make.  I bet back in January, he could not have possibly thought come May, his birthday party would be a small-time affair.  Once the charges of assault came to him this past February, he almost had to maintain a low profile to avoid even more scrutiny.  I guess this small party could indirectly be attributed to that.  Depending on who you read, the on-again /off-again couple is "off" at the moment, so it's safe to say Rihanna probably didn't call Chris Brown to wish him well.  You never know though, maybe she did, at least I hope she did.

I hope Chris Brown had a wonderful birthday party.  I think it's cool that he celebrated with his family and friends and just hung out with them.  Celebrities don't usually have this kind of down time, so while a huge party might not have been possible at this time under the circumstances, it's better than being at some photo shoot or making a music video. 

What do you think about Chris Brown opting to remain out of the public eye for now and just have a small birthday celebration?  Do you think this time away from everything will benefit him in the long run?  Drop us a comment with your thoughts.