My family celebrated birthdays, although without much fanfare. Mom would cook something for dinner that she knew we liked. A gift or so was always included, although none were lavish. All this to say, I never felt cheated. Many years later I appreciated the fact that husband John’s family always noticed my birthday. Friends and family sent cards and/or called. Having a birthday on the 22nd of December meant the celebration was never extended or postponed. No one, including me, had time. That changed this year!!
Many people called, sent an e-mail, texted, sent a card, or telephoned. This was spread throughout the real birthday without overlapping. Niece Kathie spent a whole day driving here, heating dinner she had prepared, chatting with me, also talking with Lise in Copenhagen and me as I held the phone, and driving back to Charlotte. Elaine and her sister stopped by after church, bringing me gifts from the church. We had a delightful visit with them. When Kathie and I talked about gas logs because she had just had hers replaced, I turned on mine. We sat looking at the fire while talking until the light began to fade. She set out on the three-hour drive, getting home well after dark. What a birthday! It was the longest one-day celebration I’ve ever had.
I knew fairly early that the party across the street would be postponed a day because of illness. I would NEVER wish anyone ill, but I realized almost immediately that my birthday horizon had been pushed forward 24 hours. For the first time in my life, I had a two-day celebration!!! This simply does not happen near Christmas or the changing of the year. If you have a birthday at any other time, I doubt you could appreciate this monumental happening. I am thrilled, while being sorry that sickness was the cause.
The day after my birthday this year, I had two long chats with relatives. Oh, the wonder! The pleasure! How blessed I’ve been! This has to be one of the best birthdays of my life. Many thanks to all who made this possible.
I just noticed I had all my original birthday numbers this year. Then 12/22/42. Now 12/22/24.
Mehrling Muse 