Birthday recap, etc.

Well, it's REALLY late for a birthday recap but I had some photos to share so why not? These are from The Longhorn steakhouse where I went with Nico, his brother and parents. Fun times - and steaks - were had by all.


A kadotje from Nico's parents, an orchid and a gift certificate from the flower shop where they bought it.


Group photo.


Parental unit photo.


Cute couple eating dessert photo.

On my actual birthday, which many of you may believe was a complete flop, I actually was taken to a wood, where Nico and I took the dogs for a long afternoon walk. It was the first time we'd done that in ages so my poor old legs (and the rest of me) was plum wore out.

I also had a great big package from my folks, which I opened while on the phone having my annual birthday phone call. Some rich maple cookies (from my dad) and a lovely little necklace with circular pendants (dream, wish, believe), among other things, from mom.

The same day, or soon thereafter, I got a surprise package in the mail from some friends in Brazil. What scents! And what a lot of love in one little box - some amazing soap bars and a long, handwritten letter from Gabi, whom I had the immense joy working with just before my stroke in 2008. Thanks so much to you and all the gals, Gabi! That was such a treat (also a good laugh - I love soap ;)

And thanks to all of you women who've sent words of 'hope' for the coming years. The future before me is such a blank slate, - a thing I never imagined for myself - and I guess that, combined with such a milestone birthday, brought me to an edge I hadn't anticipated.

I always thought I was a reasonably patient person but waiting every day for 'something to happen' is not as easy as it may sound. Without realizing it, I had built my life here around my career. Of course, as that old structure has slowly crumbled with nothing to take it's place, it has left an void beyond belief.

I didn't realize just how much I'd had it all planned out, the rest of my life, I mean. I feel a bit like Job, frankly, except I've not lost quite so much. Having faith that a new life will be built, brick by brick, and that the masterpiece will be worth the wait, is what keeps me going. It is coming into focus - meaning "I" am coming into focus. I asked the Universe, "who am I and what am I here to do," and that answer is coming every day as I plod along.

That is the joyous part, I suppose. And my friends Nico and Debby and Hazel and Casper are alongside me, not to mention you who've stuck by me from far away. It's a small troupe but it is strong. I'll have to share more about Debby at another time (she's one of the gals I met in the park. We've been hanging out - thank God I have a friends, and what a friend! She'd make the RFD proud.)

Hugs and hope you enjoyed the post-it.