Not long after my last posting, two separate and distinct happenings followed, which unfortunately caused equal distress. I went to bed with a heavy heart, part of me trying not to attribute such events on my birthday as a bad omen.

When I woke up I wasn't exactly looking forward to the day. Late noon, I got my first gift.

I was delighted to see my favorite flower again after so many months, all the more appreciated in the gloom of the mood, and in this cold winter where flowers and leaves were as rare as barren trees were aplenty.

Indeed, it might not be the most practical or expensive gift, but it was no doubt the spirit lifter of my day.