Well, I'll start off by saying that my husband threw me the most smashing surprise birthday party this last Thursday. Full of delicious wine, scrumptious chocolate and all my besties (minus Noah) popping out of closets and from behind chairs! AND all this was after the most romantic and special picnic dinner with my Tim. Could NOT have had a better birthday celebration. I felt loved and special and celebrated.
On my actual birthday, both Tim and I had to work. I taught a class in the morning and right as I was finishing, Tim had to go close the store. Kind of a bummer, but I came home and was SO proud of myself for thoroughly enjoying the afternoon by myself. I took great joy in just enjoying the liberty to do nothing. I sat in the sunshine, read magazines, watched an old Dorris Day movie (Calamity Jane). And THEN. I cooked myself the most amazing dinner. I had fire roasted artichoke, baked potatoe, corn on the cob and the most delicious rib eye steak with a touch of chevre seared on top. And yes, I BBQ-ed them all by myself! I lit candles, dimmed the lights and had the most romantic lovely dinner with myself. And the best part was, it wasn't sad at all. I was so content to sit there and reflect on my life: where I've been, where I'm going, how I'm feeling at this point, etc. It was nice!
And then! My dad called and said he had sent me a link of a video to watch. It was a Happy Birthday Tribute to me! So I sat and ate my ribeye and watched my childhood flit across the scene. So many happy memories. So many happy experiences. SO much love. I was amazed. Not that I remembered my childhood any differently; it's just different to relive it. (And I felt SO special and loved the my dad had taken the time to put it together for me!)
All that to say, I had the most wonderful birthday week! Full of love, friends, memories, food, gardening, teaching... all the best in life!!
So, albeit belated, I give you full permission to have a glass of (whatever you please!) in honor of happiness, celebration, and love!
And here's the link to the video for those of you who haven't seen it yet :)
