AND COUNTING

Each January 8th since 1951, I have a birthday. I'm grateful for each one. Today I've celebrated with My Amazing Missus--just the two of us. We went to one of our favorite burger places, got our food by curbside delivery and ate in the truck. For dessert, we went through the drive-thru at Andy's Frozen Custard. I had a Tin Roof Sundae and she had a kid's size strawberry sundae.

Then we drove to a community where we spent our early married years together and the place I had birthdays 24-40. I guess this is what birthdays are like at this age and in this age: a slow drive and remembering with the one you share it all with.

Numerous friends and family have texted, called and posted on Facebook with happy wishes. It worked. It has been a wonderful day.

"Do you remember what we did on your birthday last year?" My Amazing Missus asked. I didn't. She reminded me that we went to the funeral home to collect the remains of my mom who had passed a few weeks before. Covid 19.

It's hard in a way and essential to remember your mom on your birthday; even your 71st; even if she's no longer here. But, she was quite a celebrator and wouldn't want this to turn dark.

I'm not big on those over sweet cherries that are dropped on top of a good sundae. So today, I gave the one on my Tin Roof from Andy's to My Amazing Missus, who loves them. I am however, a big fan of the metaphorical cherry-on-top. You know the ones that are that extra special something. Mine was a phone call from our kids and hearing the grandkids say, "Happy Birthday Pops!"