Yesterday I forgot that it was my birthday. It was only when I checked my phone for messages that I remembered. I was preoccupied with a morning meeting, another frozen pipe and an hour to shower and pack before heading to the airport to visit my son, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren for the weekend. Yet amidst the tumult, everything seemed to fall into place. I had a sense of well-being, trust and ease. I felt radiant…in the flow and ready for whatever came my way.I was all smiles as I headed to the airport. It didn’t seem to matter what I was doing, I just felt calm and filled with hopeful anticipation, equally enjoying a shuttle ride from airport parking and a chocolate croissant at the snack bar. As I settled into my seat on the plane, the man next to me started chatting. Sometime into the conversation I told him that it was my birthday, and he insisted on buying me a drink to celebrate. Not only do I not talk with people on planes (I usually sleep and read), I NEVER order a drink. My quota is about three sips, and I feel buzzed. But this time I enjoyed a red wine as we talked and I opened my birthday cards. We exchanged stories about wineries with the flight attendant, then she disappeared and returned slightly before our descent with two cups filled with red wine from first class for us to taste. It was all so spontaneous and delightful.
When I arrived at my son’s house I was greeted by cards, cupcakes with candles, and a happy birthday song from my granddaughter. We ate, danced and talked about how much fun we were going to have this weekend. After the candles died down, and crumbs bore witness to our party, I went to bed feeling loved and fulfilled, appreciating every precious moment of this magical birthday…celebrating the joy of spontaneity and surprise.
(The Mickey Mouse picture is the cake that my daughter-in-law and I made from scratch for my grandson’s first birthday.)
Happy Birthday, dear Ellie! I loved reading about your wonderful day.
So enjoyed reading about such a wonderful day you had. By the way, happy belated birthday.
What struck me the most was your positive reaction to a few negatives that tried to block your enjoyment of the day! I do wish many more had such a positive approach to life.
By the way, good luck with the frozen pipe issue!
I love this. Everyone is celebrating! You are so wonderful and so loved. 🙂
Happy belated Birthday.! We need to celebrate when you get back!