I just had my first birthday in
54 years without John. I expected to be a bit sad, but that wasn’t the case.
Maybe I’m adjusting to my widowhood. Of course, having great kids and friends surely
helped with my day. As
always, the day began with a humungous number of Facebook family and friends
wishing me a happy birthday. The variety of wishes and manner in which the
wishes were expressed is always fun, interesting and a great way to begin a
special day.
My best
friend was going to take me to lunch. Another best friend (I’m lucky enough to
have several) got in touch with her and between the two of them, they brought
another three best friends on board for lunch. Another best friend who couldn’t
make the lunch took me to lunch the day before.
Even
though I had expressed a desire for no presents, friends don’t always listen.
One gave me a calendar for 2020, which she has done every year for several
years, two others gave me excellent books for these long dark evenings (or
afternoons…I can read whenever and however long I want), and another cross
stitched and framed a piece that says, “Thanks for being my friend.”
I
had forgotten my phone at home, so when I returned, there were two messages.
The elder son called and sang the birthday song in his indubitable jazzy
fashion and the younger called and he and his son sang me the birthday song. I
saved them so I can listen to them any time I need a lift or to be reminded how
much I’m loved.
My
eldest granddaughter sent me a variety of texts (some of which I saved for the
same reason I saved the sons’ singing) wishing me happy birthday as well as
calling me to chat a bit. Finally, my Tennessee brother called late in the
evening to say happy birthday as well.
Looking
back on all the previous birthdays I’ve been fortunate enough to celebrate,
there are some that stand out from others for one reason or another. This
birthday will be a stand out as well because even though John was absent, I was
blessed with family and friends who made my special day very special.