Happy Birthday to Me, Part 4

Isn't it great when something turns out better than you expected? That was last night with my friend John and his friend Michael. We ate and ate and ate at The Park Grill in Millennium Park, a traditional turkey feast with potatoes and asparagus and cranberry compote. We laughed a lot, gossiped quite a bit, and Michael told me all about being stranded in New York after Hurricane Sandy. Then John gave me my birthday present -- a frame for photos of my mom and some candles.

I had been dreading Thanksgiving/birthday Day for quite some time. First holiday and first birthday without my mom. First holiday and first birthday without the old traditions. I wore my mother's diamond-chip cocktail ring last night to feel like she was with me.

Last night there was nothing but acceptance and comfort and fun. I know that's what you're supposed to feel when you're with your family, but I seldom have. John and Michael gave me a welcoming evening, and that's something to be very thankful for!