My Birthday age 59

Today is my birthday. I have not been feeling well for more than a week, which was when I went to the Walk-In Clinic with diagnosis Contact Dermatitis. A shot in the hip and prescription for Prednisone for allergy relief, and now recovery with side effect of the drugs. However, today is my birthday, and I am feeling well enough that I wanted a good birthday supper and some strawberry shortcake to celebrate.
But first, a side trip to Great Harvest Bakery for a free cookie, and a loaf of bread. Since the medicine is supposed to be taken with food, I’m thinking a slice of tasty toast would be just the thing.
Onward to Michael’s Crafts. Yarn for knitting peg loom baby hats is on sale.
While I was looking around, I noticed a small girl in front of the plastic figurine shelf display. Her dad was nearby, waiting so patiently. The girl had a fairy princess with a purple dress sitting by her feet on the floor. She was now in front of the animals. She would look at each, put one next to the princess. Then she would find another, put the first back on the shelf, sit down the newer choice. I deduced that her dad had said she is allowed to buy 2.
So I asked why is she here, what makes this purchase so special? she shrugged wearily, and said “cuz I’m with Dad”. I assumed this is the afternoon of the week when it is Dad’s time with daughter, and he believes a crafts store is where a little girl likes to go. Not much hints to go on, so I could be mistaken.
I took in a big breath and said “I am here to spend a little birthday money.” She looked away from the animal figurines and right at me. “How old are you?” I grinned and said “this is the last year that I get to write a 5 first on my age. I am 59 years old!”
Her eyes got huge. “Wow! so Old!” Her dad had a big intake of breath.
I grinned at her. “Well, I have lived a good life. And I know of someone who is older than me. Today is also the birthday of Prince Phillip, the Queen of England’s husband. He is 94 years old today. I am very happy to share my birthday with him. HE could be my grandpa!” She was speechless for a few seconds, then said “I am only 4 years old”. I smiled at her and said I hope she has a Happy Birthday when she turns 5.
As I rounded the corner to the yarn aisle, she called out “Happy Birthday!” I stopped and looked back at her, and got a bit sentimental. “Thank You” I said. “You just helped to make it better”

Later at the grocery store, where I was buying the fixins for Cheesy Potato Casserole, and Meatloaf, and Broccoli, I saw a woman that I know from around town. I struck up a conversation with her, about it being my birthday, and interacting with a little girl at the other store. She listened so nicely, then patted my arm and wished me a Happy Birthday also.

Here at home, as supper was in the oven (why did I choose oven cooking when the temperature is 90° outside?) I told the story to my guys in the kitchen. And later, when son’s sweetie came by after her job, and she did have some strawberries, I told the story again, meaning the guys heard it twice and did not even interrupt.

And now ’tis time for clean-up. Glad for a dishwasher. Might leave some things for in the morning. Because it is my birthday and Summer lazy time…

~~love and Huggs, Diane