A Different Kind of Birthday

Today is my birthday. Old Kitty at Ten lives and second chances, also celebrates her birthday today. Pop over and say hello!

This time last year I was in Florence. I spent my birthday walking the Boboli Gardens and the Pitti Palace. I received text messages throughout the day from husband, children, sisters and two close friends. I felt loved, as I soaked in the beauty of those breathtaking gardens and reading my text messages. Later that evening I went for dinner to what had become my local restaurant, Antico Fattore. Roberto the maitre’de took charge. I was led to what had become my table. Roberto snapped his fingers and the waiter Joseph appeared with a half bottle of Chianti.  My usual, which Roberto poured for me with a flourish. It seems my Florentine landlady; Rosella had told them it was my birthday. Did I feel like a princess? YES!!! After the royal treatment, I headed to an open-air performance of Carmen.  A memorable birthday, a dream come true!



Today will be different. After I try to tame my wild, unruly hair I will slap on some lipstick. Then I will take the lilies I have cut from my garden and visit my mother and father’s graves. I will thank them for bringing me into this world. For giving me life! I will thank my mother who one day a very long time ago, held me in her eyes and said, “A good and happy life is waiting for you, Ann. I promise.” Her conviction resonated in my soul and stayed with me. Today, I will thank her for giving me that precious gift of surety, as I reflect on the numerous blessings life has afforded me. Especially those pictured below.

          Thanks Mom!