51 and a Chocolate Velvet Cake

birthday cake

A year ago when I went to California to be by my father's side, a small package arrived in France. A birthday package mailed to me. Since French Husband stayed in France he told me about the birthday package and asked if I wanted him to mail it to me in California. I told him not to mail it, but instead to put it by my bedside. (I thought I would be in California for a two weeks or so, and then return to France. The package would have taken that amount of time to arrive if sent.)

constance's design cake

Seven months later when I returned to France the little package was waiting for me.
A small, faux, birthday cake made in chocolate velvet, with a pink satin, rose on top.
It was such a tender, sweet gift to receive.

birthday surprise

But there was more to that cake then the first delicious bite. The cake was on a tray trailed with a brown ruffle ribbon. I lifted the cake off the tray to find a delightful, heart touching surprise.

 notes

Underneath the cake was a nest full of friendship notes. Constance, who made the faux, chocolate, velvet cake, had taken the comments sent to me on my birthday last year, cut each one of them out to create streamers of individual notes. The she added them as the sweetest ingredient to the cake.

birthday

Imagine my surprise to see those notes, those comments, your kindness, your friendship baked inside of Constance's cake! What a feast! What a welcoming pleasure to come home to… friends surrounding me with loving support. 

woman in a carriage 

The inside of the cake was lined with paper of a woman being transported in a carriage. I felt it symbolic of my journey to California… I had been transported, carried along by your prayers, your good thoughts, your generous acts of kindness…. Inside the cake your notes reminded me that I am lucky to have such kind hearted people-friends who read my blog. Thank you.

note 

One of the comments, like a sweet fortune "tale", inspired me today to give back some of the goodness I have received from you. 

In the comment section tell me about your last birthday: What did you do.. Did you eat cake… Was it what you expected… What wonderful, funny, birthday gift did you receive… and if you want how old are you.

I will then randomly pick three names out of the comments, and send an antique treasure to the lucky three….

siver brooch 

First antique treasure prize: A silver brooch with an amethyst color stone (because February's stone is amethyst. I don't know if this one is real or not but it is purple.)

French estampe 

A small French antique estampe and,

silver heart 

a silver vintage heart to add to a necklace. Oh, tell me which one you prefer so that if your name is drawn I can send you the one you like.

IMG_3179 

Again thank you Constance and all of you for being such sweethearts to me.

Note: From now on I will be responding to comments in the comment section when I can. If you want you can check back. Some of you ask me questions and it is easier for me to respond directly to your questions in the comment section.



Comments

175 responses to “51 and a Chocolate Velvet Cake”

  1. julie holvik

    HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR COUSIN WISHING YOU MANY MORE FUN FILLED PAINTING DAYS! MY BIRTHDAY WILL BE FEB. 23 I WILL HIT THE 60! MY FAVORITE CAKE IS CHEESE CAKE, HAVING A PARTY FEB. 21 WITH FAMILY AND A FEW FRIENDS. I REMEMBER MY 50TH BIRTHDAY AS A FUN FILLED EVENING I DANCED ALL NIGHT! IF I WIN I WOULD LOVE ANY OF THE GIFTS, BUT WOULD LIKE THE PIN. LOVE JULIE

  2. Just like you , Constance is a gem for our world!
    I can not believe what she made! She is such an artist ! I admired her .
    Joyeux anniversaire

  3. The velvet chocolate cake is darling! What a sweet and touching gesture. I think it’s times like that, that you realize how connected you are to so many people.
    I don’t need a prize since I already have the embroidered napkin holder from your last giveaway. I spent my last birthday eating Peking duck in three ways – wrapped in thin Mandarin pancakes, duck bone soup, and stir-fried with bean sprouts. And cupcakes for dessert. 🙂

  4. That is so lovely and thoughtful. My last birthday I was having grown up fancy drinks with some friends in a reataurant. One of them brought a surprise chocolate and raspberry cake in a tin and sneakily lit the candles – which caught the paper around it and the whole thing caught fire! We managed to put it out but the whole restaurant smelled burnt with black smoke whirling around. I’m surprised we didn’t get thrown out but they were very nice about it considering the trouble we made! (the cake tasted a little bbq’d) Oh yes, then there were the balloons on the ceiling and the party streamers (brought by the same friend)…I must say I felt a bit bashful the next time I went there but it was fun. (I’d love the little gold estampe if I won) x

  5. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Corey !!! That was a sweet and fantastic presie from Constance …! How delicate and thoughtful !!!
    I’m nearly 2 months older than you.
    My husband took us to one of my favourite local restaurants. It’s outside a nearby
    town : “La Patte d’oie” (the Goose Leg).
    When arriving, my husband said he had booked a table for 4 under his name…
    A check…a wait… a silence… a puzzle in his look while going through the book for the 3rd time… The man “could not find our name”! A “professionnal mistake”, my husband added…
    Fortunately, it was on a Monday… in the low season… It was far from full.
    Unfortunately, the service was casual, the “carte” was not as top-class as in the high season – so different from our other times there…
    My husband winced at many occasions …
    Miss Goose might not see us again before LONG, I’m afraid !?!
    And the next evening, my husband made a special dinner at home. Simple, funny and good.

  6. Since my birthday is the 11th of Feb, my last one was nearly a year ago. It was going to be perfect – my daughter and 2 year old granddaughter flew in to spend a few days with me, I had time away from the office, and the only thing I *had* to do was get my annual mammogram. (If I schedule around my birthday, I don’t forget.) Unfortunately, I got a terrible stomach virus, spent 2 1/2 days in bed, and didn’t even get to visit with them! This year is bound to be better! No visitors, but we are going out to a wonderful Thai restaurant for dinner. Each of the gifties looks wonderful, but the brooch is my fave.

  7. Happy Birthday Corey!!!!
    How can it be a whole year…time flys…beautiful Constance cake….she is so creative. I “think” I will be 57 soon…one starts to loose memories in the 50’s,,haha, or was it the 40’s. I spent my last b-day in a casino in Mississippi, they have endless deserts, I think I had cake. I had a good time at any rate…if I remember correctly….My fav is the purple, all beautiful. So,,no ring yet? Have you bubble bathed in your lovley tub yet? I am enjoying the bath makeover.
    Take care,
    Marcie

  8. Corey
    My birthday is October 25th. I have always loved the date, because it is exactly 2 months until Christmas. I was 51 on my birthday and I was home celebrating with my wonderful family. My older daughters fixed a delicious meal for us.
    If I win I love the heart.
    Wishing you the happiest of Birthdays!!!
    Nancy N.

  9. Birthday wishes to you Corey. May your days ahead be blessed with happiness. My husband & I had been wanting to travel for many years, you know how it goes… we will wait to the kids grow up, we wait until our business can be run by loyal staff. Then one day my husband said ok we are never going to get away for 4-6 weeks, and he asked me if we had 2 weeks where would I like to travel to? My answer was Italy, he then said you are turning 50 in May ’08 lets plan to be away for your birthday. So we made our arrangements and also decided to add a week in Paris after our 2 weeks in Italy. Just before we left Australia to go on the journey of our lives, our best friends emailed me and said see the attached…it was a gift voucher for a river cruise down the Seine & dinner at the Eiffel Tower!!!! So my husband & I had a wonderful tour of Italy and I celebrated my 5oth in Assisi. Then we went onto Paris and stayed at the Hotel des Tuileries (lovely hotel)then on our 2nd evening in Paris we went to the office of the travel co. to be taken on the cruise & dinner at the Eiffel Tower. Looking out the window of the office my husband said doesn’t that lady outside look like Julie (our friend from Melbourne that had given us the wonderful gift voucher)as I looked up to check out this look-alike, I realized that the woman & man coming thru the door was indeed our close friends! So we had a wonderful time sightseeing all around Paris with them for the next 5 days. The highlights of France for us was, the dinner at the Eiffel Tower ( still not believing that our dear friends were sitting across the table from us), the tour of Palace of Versailles, and visting Pozieres & Villers-Bretonneux. I don’t think my next birthday will be as amazing as my 5oth! If I should be so lucky as to be drawn, the silver vintage heart is pulling at my heartstrings.

  10. Happy Birthday dear Corey!!! How lovely of Constance! She is such a heart of gold, with hands and artistry to match. I hope you have a chance to meet her one day-there is an aura of goodness and openness around her hard to resist.Oh, and she is a party girl :). I am sure the two of you would paint the town all sorts of colors 😉 I miss having her around.

  11. you are going to have a time reading all the comments! That velvet cake is simply delicious !
    My birthday is January 1st. I was born the same year as you – 1958, so I am leetle older than you but not much :)- I was the 2nd baby born in 1958, beaten by 3 mins by a BOY! Mum was having a race in labour, just what you want to do while giving birth.
    My birthday is usually a quiet affair as most people have hangovers from New Years Eve.. however, it does not make my birthday any less special. My last birthday – hmmm my eldest daughter took me out to breakfast with my new grandson Harry.. just 10mths old.. then I gardened during the day.. and dinner out to one of my favourite restaurants Bonton in Leura… Joe my husband always buys me a bottle of French champagne.. which I sip with utter delight.
    A very happy birth day to you dear Corey – I hope you are spoilt & pampered like you should be. I wish for you a wonderful coming year.. full of laughter, peace, love & happiness and of course good health. so glad our paths have crossed xxoo

  12. Happy Birthday! Your velvet cake is so darling and you have an exceptional husband. I almost lost my husband a year ago in September so when my 63rd birthday rolled around in November I didn’t need a cake, candles or presents. Having him by my side was enough to make it the happiest birthday EVER. Enjoy your day.

  13. Haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaapppppppppy Birrrrrtttthday tooooo youuuuuu, and me. Because I remember from last year that we share the same birthday. 😀
    For my LAST birthday I made two kinds of homemade ice cream, calories do not exist on birthdays so of course I had two kinds. Then my husband and I went and stalked the animals at the San Diego Wild Animal park. I gushed, the gorillas looked on with amusement, I gushed some more. On return home we ate homemade oven fries, salad, crab legs and battered fish with homemade tartar sauce. There was beer and a Vampire movie.
    Pretty much the most perfect birthday a gal could ask for! I was 30, so now I am officially 31. So far it’s a pretty dang great birthday as it has involved me making an enormous cheesecake that is only destined to feed my husband and I….hee hee but like I said, calories do not exist on birthdays. 🙂
    Have a fantabulous day, I hope you have something sweet and tasty at some point. 🙂

  14. What a thoughtful gift! I whish you more this year.
    HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
    My own is on september the 28, I usually have a family dinner, usually with a cake baked from mom (a very creamy one, the same she made for me when I was a kid, lots of butter in it) and then I celebrate out with my friends. I feel so blessed because they show me such love and tenderness! And they presented me beautiful gifts!

  15. Happy Birthday Corey! I read your blog everyday and rarely leave a comment but today I thought it was important to wish you a great day. My birthday is May 11. Usually falls on Mothers Day so we kill two birds with one stone. Many of the years I have been in car for many hours because we are coming back from a beautiful vacation on Hilton Head Island.
    I hope you enjoy this day.

  16. Oh I forgot to let you know which item I wanted if you drew my name. I love them all but I think my favorite is the silver heart. Thanks Corey for brightening my day.

  17. Happy Birthda Corey!!! My last birthday was one of the best not because of presents, cake or a big party but because of love. My parents live 3 hours away and surprised me and drove to my house to take me to lunch. My father had a stroke 5 years ago and doesn’t like to be away from his home so it was a big deal!!! They also knew I was having issues with my oldest child. My husband was out of town and I wasn’t able to drive due to my right foot being broken.
    I thought the day was going to be terrible.
    But early evening more love came my way as my son called and talked for a long time. He texted me later with wonderful news. So what I thought would be a terrible day was fabulous!!!

  18. I was 49 in August and we went out with out best friends. We had a coupon for a 3 course meal for £12.00 or something like that and so we had a pretty nice meal kind of on the cheap.
    This year, for my 50th, we’ve all decided that we’re going to push the boat out and not even use coupons when we dine out. 🙂

  19. Sending you the happiest birthday wishes from Germany dear Corey! Hope your day, or better your whole new year of life is filled with many happy moments, the best of health for you and your loved ones and that all your wishes will come true!
    Carola xoxo
    My Birthday was júst last week on January 29th and I had taken that Thursday and the Friday after it off work, so I could celebrate with my family on my birth day, with my friends on Friday evening and go to a birthday cinema/movie night invitation on Saturday and had a tea party with my neighbours on Sunday. At the end I had 4 days of celebration for a 46th b-day, but everything was relaxed and I had a lot of fun!:)
    Well in the rare case that I should win, I’d let you choose for me because I like all 4 treasures shown here.
    Oh and btw, I love that adorable velvet chocolat cake Constance has created for you!

  20. Wishes for the best Birthday ever dear Corey – I know Yann, Chelsea & Sacha are happy you are spending it on their side of the pond this year. I think of your mom though – a bittersweet day for her being you are far away from Willows – I hope she is well. I always called my mother on MY birthday to thank her for having me. Your velvet cake – what a delightful gift – it’s just so lovely.
    As for my last B’day – it was Oct. 26 and I was on an American Airlines flight returning from that fabulous month in France when I had the great pleasure of meeting you! I get a lot of mail from Medicare(so you can guess my age!!!!!) but I certainly don’t feel it, thank goodness. Bob threatened to have the flight attendant announce it over the PA system but I was able to talk him out of it! MY cake – the usual stale granola bar which comes with the vegetarian meal, yuck!
    Love and special Birthday hugs.
    Mary & Bob XOX0
    P.S. Any of the three sweet gifts would be lovely to win – but the little puffed silver heart would look perfect on a chain or bracelet. Please add my name.

  21. What a sweet surprise. 🙂
    Last year I actually celebrate dmy 39th birthday in Carmel, California with dear friends of ours that live there. I feasted on coconut cake. (my fav!) The trip was part of my birthday present and I so enjoyed it. I am taking the advice form another blogger which is:
    *Spend money on experiences – not things*
    🙂
    Joy
    xo

  22. Joy Meadows

    What a beautiful chocolate velvet cake!!
    My oldest daughter was born in 1958 so you can guesstimate how old I am!!!
    My birthday is December 23rd – not the best time of year to have a birthday, in some ways. However, I spent my most recent one with my son and his family in Parker CO. They always make it my SPECIAL day with lovely gifts, a delicious meal and the celebratory cake, of course. The grandchildren are so sweet and love to help me blow out the candles. Being surrounded by love is the best way to spend a birthday, isn’t it??
    The silver heart is beautiful. The amethyst heart is lovely. Either one would be a great gift!
    Thanks for your generosity!

  23. My last brithday was in August. We took the day off and went to the city, NYC, that is. C. and I walked around all day aimlessly (the best) we bought picnic provisions at the Grand Central Station market and went on a picnic in Washington Square Park, ate gelato, shopped and had a special dinner at a Morrocan restaurant. (which was delish).
    It was a perfect birthday indeed!
    HAPPY BIRTHDAY COREY!!
    And that Constance is quite a doll isn’t she?

  24. Happy Birthday sweet Corey!!!! I wish you many, many more! What a precious, beautiful gift from Constance ~ With my birthday being the day after Christmas, my sweet husband gives me money as does a few other family members and I went shopping for treasures, arting supplies and had a wonderful lunch with a friend!! Corey, I would love anything if you were to draw my name ~ hugs and love, xxoo, Dawn

  25. What a beautiful birthday gift. My birthday was spent at a casino. Every time I put my players card in the slot machine, it would wish me Happy Birthday! very fun … kept winning enough to keep playing so I was a happy girl. I am 48

  26. Sheala Feeney

    H.B.!!!
    I was 48 on my last birthday. It was the last day of school for the year so I recieved tons of gifts from my co workers and lots of handmade cards from my students!
    Dave and I went out to a yummy dinner and ate a “chocolate/peanut butter stack” It’s the best, richest, gooiest cake ever. It was a fun day.

  27. What an incredibly thoughtful and beautiful gift. It was perfect that it sat by your bedside until you returned home. God is good like that, isn’t He? On my last birthday I turned 52 and for the life of me I cannot remember what I did. I’m sure it was a perfectly lovely July day. It’s kind of amazing me that I cannot remember. Maybe it will come to me later today. I love birthdays and I love to celebrate life. So Happy Birthday, dear Corey! Today I celebrate that you were born!! WOOHOOOOO!!

  28. Happy Birthday, Corey. The velvet birthday cake with comments is precious! I turned 57 last June 18. It was ladies golf night, and when we arrived back at the club house they surprised me with cake and ice cream. The best surprise was they invited my husband and children to help us celebrate! I love the brooch–I would wear it on the golf course for my 58th!

  29. Jeanette in Texas

    Happy Birthday!
    What a thoughful and creative gift that cake was!! Such a nice idea. We always like to know that we are loved.
    I don’t remember my last birthday. I was 45 and I know that my kids and husband made dinner and a cake for me, because they do that every year. It is very sweet.

  30. Happy birthday you Blonde bombshell you!
    For my birhtday last year (I was 49), my beloved bought me apiece of narrative jewellry by one of my favourite artists.
    He bought it because 2 wwks before I saw the piece come up on her etsy site. He was away in Northern australia at the time and I rang him. I had forgotten the time difference and woke him at 1am! He listened, he fired up his laptop and he bought it! What he didn’t tell me was that the Aus $ did not come up well against the us$. Many weeks later he let it slip and I wheedled the real rice out of him…….I nearly fell over! Money has been a little tight here recently as we are paying off a reno. loan. I wear that necklace with such pride……
    I shall be 50 in October, I have so many ways I want to celebate……
    I love it that you are giving gifts out on your birthday, but do not draw my name….the little key is enough and sits in my studio.

  31. Happy Birthday Dear Corey!
    Fifty one and Terrific!!!
    For YOU to know the amount you mean to all of us (out here in Blogland) makes my heart smile. May this year # 51 be your best year yet! Welcome to the club!!
    It’s a nice age.
    Love,
    Constance
    P.s.
    When you have time, please step into your chariot and have ‘your fellas’ give you a ride back to Rochambeau.

  32. I am sending you wishes for a wonderful birthday, one of the best in fact! I wish you were my neighbor, I’d come by with champagne and we would toast!
    I just had my birthday in January and we went to Vancouver, BC Canada to celebrate. We ate at a wonderful French restaurant and had lovely birthday cake – I LOVE CAKE!
    If I were to win…I would want you to choose!

  33. The velvet cake was such a sweet and beautiful gift! What a wonderful thing!
    Happiest of birthdays to you, Corey! I hope this year brings you much joy, inspiration, beauty, laughter and love — all the things you bring to us lucky readers each day.
    Good health and best birthday wishes!
    xo Isa

  34. Happy Birthday Corey! I wish for a year full of pleasant surprises and happy memories.
    I am 37 years young and don’t feel a day over 18. My brain still thinks that I am a kid. I ride with the windows down on my car with the music too loud and seriously think that pink hair would rock just like that silver heart.
    Though I have to say my birthdays have never been what I expect. I expect a bigger deal and nothing much happens. Hopefully some day my hubby will get the clue and whisk me away somewhere exciting or have a party. A girl can dream can’t she?

  35. Happy Birthday my lovely friend.
    On the day you were born
    Angels danced.
    Love you
    Jeanne

  36. I forgot to answer the question! Last year I turned 37 and it was a quiet birthday at home with my family and a few friends. It was April, and beautiful — my son made dinner and he and my husband made my cake. We all ate outside under the stars and beneath cafe lights – drank much wine, laughed, sang, told stories late into the night until all the candles burned down. It was sweet, simple, and wonderful.
    -Isa

  37. happy birthday, corey.
    i feel as if i know you
    as dear constance
    is a sweet friend of mine, too.
    last year you
    and
    i BOTH received birthday cakes
    filled with greetings
    {{ only mine was Pink, of course }}
    from this ever~so thoughtful, constance.
    {{ such a treat herself }}
    🙂
    this year finds me
    at the bed-side
    of my own wasting~away, much loved father.
    your postings about your own dear dad
    from last year
    are helping me even today.
    i just wanted you to know.
    and
    to say that i hope your day is Special.
    so from one blogging, birthday daughter
    to another
    ———>
    enjoy your day, missy.
    🙂
    {{the amethyst
    is my birthday stone, too.
    if i should be so fortunate as to win…
    oh happy day!
    if i do not win,
    life is still grand,isn’t it }}
    ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥
    ♥♥♥

  38. michelle blaise

    Let’s see, my last birthday I turned 43. For some reason, when people ask how old, I have it stuck in my head that I’m 41. It surprises me everyday that I am 43. My birthday is in April, my husband and I share the same birthday. His name is Michael & I’m Michelle. Everyone thinks it’s cute. We always celebrate, by going out to dinner & a movie and having cake with our 3 gurlz. My gift was a handheld GPS to go geocaching. I’ve gone once and feel terribly guilty for not using it more.
    As for your beautiful charms; I can find a reason for wanting each one. I have an amethyst ring that my brother gave me. Who doesn’t love a little angel for some added luck? And puffy hearts are always in style.
    Thank you for sharing.
    michelleb.

  39. Veronica Derry

    Happy Birthday to you Corey,
    My last birthday was Nov. 8……..it was my 50th. My father and I went out for a decadent lunch followed by a dessert so impressive and lavish it defied reality.
    After lunch I went to visit my mother, we had moved her into a nursing home the end of August. The week leading up to my birthday was a bad one for her,dementia was taking over and she hadn’t been very interactive, she was off in her own world. That day though, when I walked through the door……..recognition lit her face. I shared the card she and Dad had given me, she reached out and touched it, tears rolling down her cheeks. I could see her retreating inward again, and said, “Mum, did you know that this is my 50th birthday?”
    She raised her head slowly, turned to look at me, eyes wide, and responded “OLD” with a hint of a smile in her expression. I laughed, she laughed….we laughed together. It was the best birthday gift possible to have her present like that, to have her make one last joke……to share laughter one last time.
    She passed away on the 21st on Nov., the day after my fathers birthday.
    It’s a journey, grief, but with small gifts such as that comment from her, the laughter…those little gifts keep the heart held together.
    Your blogging last year of your journey with your father was such a touchstone…..and I’ll take this moment to thank you for your honesty during that time…it was a huge help as I watched doing my best to help with my mother’s transition.
    Writing helps with healing……and reading of others experiences also helps.
    Thank you again………..and may more magic appear in your life such as that lovely little cake filled with heartfelt messages.
    Happy Birthday,
    Veronica

  40. Dear Corey,
    I can’t imagine a better birthday than one spent in the company of good friends. One the eve of my 28th birthday in November, some girlfriends and I went out to a fancy Greek restaurant for dinner. The next morning, several other friends came to help me prepare a British breakfast with a mouthwatering array of dishes, including toast and marmalade, broiled thyme tomatoes, butter sauted mushrooms, and plenty of tea, but alas! no cake! What began as a mid-morning brunch stretched into a leisurely day-long party during which we played games, visited, took a walk, drank more tea, received more friends as they dropped by, only to part ways late in the evening. More than by any of the gifts I received in the course of the day, I treasure the memories of our time together.

  41. What a lovely gift to come home to… I celebrated my 55th birthday May 15th. I am embarrassed to say, I don’t remember what I did, but I’m sure I had a good time (?) Is that what happens when you turn 55?

  42. I had the pleasure of spending my 49th birthday in a lovely restaurant on a cruise ship. The view of the sun setting over St. Barts was breathtaking. It was a once in a lifetime dream dinner.

  43. oh corey…what a beautiful beautiful gift…you are really charmed to be surrounded by so many amazing people!!!!!!!!
    and the silver heart is just gorgeous…how can you part with these things???
    nancyxx

  44. Happy Birthday to you, Corie! I hope your day is wonderful.
    My last birthday was possibly the best so far, spent in Orlando Florida at Disney with friends. I’m a Waldorf-child, so not only had I never had the Disney park experience before, I had watched hardly any of the movies. My sweetheart loaded me up on cartoons for the weeks before we went (especially the older ones with the fantastic music), so my head was ringing with the songs the whole time. I have to say, its a magical friendly happy place, complete to the fireworks ending! I was 24 years old. Can’t wait to see what happens this year!

  45. Happy birthday, Corey!! What a sweet gift… Last year, for my 45th birthday, my husband surprised me with a wonderful camera I had been wanting for long… But what made it truly special was to know that, for an entire year, he had been putting a little money aside every week to save for this big purchase!! That, to me, is uber romantic!!! Have a wonderful day!
    Isabel

  46. Paris Parfait

    Bon Anniversaire, Corey! Isn’t Constance a dream friend? xo

  47. Happy Birthday Corey and thank you for the gift of you!

  48. When I looked at the first photo I thought to myself…”That is so Corey”
    Constance is a most amazing friend and knows just how to give the right present. I also love that she made your wonderful present…she has great talent.
    My Birthday is July 23. Last year my present was having my Family from Denmark (Son, Daughter-in-law and Grandson) with me…we celebrated my ?? Birthday…What? You thought I would tell 🙂
    How lovely that you are giving others present on your Birthday.
    Happy Birthday dear Corey xoxo

  49. Happy 51st Corey.
    That little cake is absolutely adorable and the little streamers of comments inside…wow.
    My last birthday I turned 54 (oh how I dislike saying that) and my birthday is just around the corner again (16th). My last birthday I spent with friends and enjoyed a lovely time chatting and laughing. Hubby bought two dozen roses of all colors (a lovely rainbow)…beautiful. And, we traveled to Venice, Florence and Rome a few weeks earlier and we so enjoyed that magical time together.
    This birthday I will be alone in Tuscany and wandering the backroads and such. It will be quite different. The trip is hubby’s gift to me 🙂 I will be sitting in Piazza della Republica in Florence on the 16th sipping something hot and celebrate quietly another birthday and ponder the year ahead.
    Have a wonderful day.
    Erin

  50. A very happy birthday to such a talented, creative and caring woman. You are my inspiration…..I will turn 48 on June 6th where my 15yr old daughter Madeline will bake me a cake and she and her sister Julia who is 18 will create birthday cards that make my heart sing!
    Enjoy
    Christine

  51. Cheryl in California

    Happy Birthday, Corey! May this be the best year ever. My brother’s b-day is just three days before mine so we always have a joint celebration at my Mom’s house. The best gift is having all of the family together. I love all three of the prizes you chose.

  52. Happy Birthday Corey! Although your posts every day are a gift to me. I look forward each morning to read and be inspired by you. I started reading your posts when you were in California and your Dad was sick. It brought me back to that time when I lost my own Daddy. I cannot tell you how much your writing has changed the way I look at things and for that I am grateful. Happy Birthday! and thank you Cristina

  53. Happy Birthday! I love the cake. At first though, I thought it was a hat! 😀
    I made this for my best friend shortly after my own birthday, and I thought I’d give it to you as well:
    My last birthday wasn’t anything grand, but I did get to see one of my close friends a few days before, right after she arrived from the World Youth Day in Sydney. I call her my “see-each-other-once-a-year-only” friend, because she lives far from where I do and only flies over during August, our birthday month. 🙂

  54. oh, i forgot the link i meant to post with my comment!
    here it is:
    http://themagickbox.wordpress.com/?attachment_id=412

  55. Diane Laurent

    My birthday is Dec.22nd and my son is Dec. 23rd. I spent my 62nd birthday with daughter and grandson in a car for 9 hours traveling to VA. to be with son and his two little boys…no gifts needed, I had my children and grandsons at my age, you don’t need much more…Happy Birhtday and continued blessings..Love ya!!

  56. Last year I spent my 38th with family in Australia and only my mother remembered it was my birthday. I baked the family a roast lamb for dinner, which was incredibly delicious, because I am a great cook, and they didnt deserve it!
    This year I have reconsiled with my husband in Canada and I will spend my 39th with just him, our daugther and me. I will cook a roast lamb for dinner, which will be incredibly delicious because I am a great cook – time will tell if they deserve it! 😀

  57. dancing kitchen

    My last birthday was a quiet one. I had a friend invite me over and serve me ice cream cake…and sing me the birthday song. My 37th birthday will be August 5th…and the brooch is my favorite.

  58. Happy Birthday to you! And how like you to offer a present to us for your birthday.That sweet Constance knows just how to touch a heart, doesn’t she? Last year, my birthday in May was particularly hard since my sweet sister passed away in April, just before her birthday. And my birthday usually falls around Mother’s Day so it gets all mixed up in there but last year, I spent the day at our local botanical gardens, it was glorious. The new Japanese Garden was just opening and the iris were in full bloom. Many pictures later I went out to dinner with my sweet son and it was a wonderful start to my 55th year! I love both the “amethyst” and the heart. Thanks for sharing! smooches

  59. I have the 2nd worst date for a birthday in all the world. December 24th. People forget it because they are so busy with Christmas. Then when they do remember it, they wrap the gift in Christmas paper. This was a big no-no when I was a kid. I didn’t care if you got me a rock, you better wrap it in birthday paper! I still hate getting a birthday gift wrapped in Christmas paper. I’ve even had people try to wrap it with Christmas paper turned inside out!
    As an adult, I’ve come to realize there is something serene in being born near the date we celebrate Christ’s birth. I wonder if that’s why my name means Dearly beloved, Christianly woman? Were my parents that deep of thinkers, or was it a happy coincidence?

  60. The beautiful French heart because I left mine in France.
    My last birthday, August 5, 56 years old, was happy, poignant, every emotion possible. I received the last birthday card that Marshall will ever write to me, he can no longer write or even see well enough to do so. My friend, Jeannie, was still here so I received lots of little treats for my trip to France in October and the girls who work with me made it special for me. I knew that it was a turning point in my life. No birthday would ever be the same again. It was beautiful and I cherish it.
    Happy birthday to you dear, dear Corey. As the Irish in my family would say, May you live forever and the last face you see be mine.

  61. Brother Mathew

    Happy Birthday Sister. Marie asked me once if I would grow any taller. I said that most people don’t get much taller after the age of 18. The events this last year in our family made you taller in my eyes. Dad would be proud of his little girl.
    Brother Mathew

  62. Caroline King

    Dear Corey:
    Happy happy birthday! I enjoy your blog so much and your photos are always so amazingly beautiful! Your love for life lifts me up and I send you my best wishes for a wonderful year full of surprises and blessings! PS I would either the brooch (my birthday is next week) or the little heart how sweet!Thank you so much!

  63. HAPPY BIRTHDAY COREY! May it be a grand one.
    Last Sept. I turned 54…I worked, went to lunch with hubby. Daughter was in LA. BUT, this September I hope to be visiting my daughter in PARIS!

  64. Corey, happy fifty plus one birthday. One that will mostlikely be a reflective and joyeus one.

  65. Rather than my last birthday, I’d like to tell you about one that was several years ago. My mother was in the final stages of lung cancer and could barely talk, yet she had my sister punch my telephone number in the phone and then hold the phone up to her mouth. When I answered, all I heard was this very raspy, whispery – Happy Birthday Honey…. I will never forget that greeting – the last birthday greeting I received from my mother. And, she made sure it was at 1 second after midnight – she was the “first” to wish me birthday wishes that way!
    I’ve enjoyed many greetings since that birthday, but none as dear as mother’s.
    MimiG

  66. Happy Birthday! I prefer to tell you about my upcoming birthday in two weeks. I will be 40 and my husband and I are going to NYC for a long weekend full of fun and adventure. Thanks for offering this drawing. I love all three!!

  67. Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday, dear Corey. Happy birthday to you!
    My own birthday is special each year, whether we go out to dinner to celebrate (which my husband and I did this past year) or just stay home. What makes it special is a certain phone call. At some time during the day, my brother and I talk, and that one thing always makes my heart expand. He and I share a special bond because we share a birthday (we are not twins; we were born on the same day two years apart, and we think that’s pretty special since we have no other sisters or brothers). So, in November, he will be 51 (like you!) and I will be 49.
    My favorite of your treasures today: the silver heart.
    Thank you, Corey, for the gift of you. I celebrate your birthday with you, for it is a gift to me as well. Wishing you many adventures and much laughter in the year ahead.

  68. Happy Birthday, Corey! What a great gift idea!
    Last year, my family and I were in transition on my birthday: we had just moved to Germany from New York and I was in the process of unpacking. We ate a Black Forest Cake purchased at a grocery store off of paper plates and with various pieces of silverware. Unsure of what I wanted as a present, my husband asked me what I wanted. He unpacked all of the bedding, made the bed (which smelled stale from being in crates), sprayed it with an inordinate amount of cologne (to kill the stale smell), and let me nap while he unpacked a few boxes…HEAVENLY!
    I woke up refreshed, ready to face the mountain of boxes, and beginning my 32nd year in a new place with endless possibilities!

  69. Carol Kitchell

    Hi Corey,
    My 61st birthday is tomorrow! The last one held some “rite of passage” emotions, I confess. My two dear girlfriends came for lunch and brought a beautiful little chocolate cake, much like your velvet one, as well as chocolate pastries and chocolate candy. Wow! In the evening, my friend visiting from Spain produced a bakery-bought cake and my husband bought a cake. Talk about sugar overload. What could be better? My lovely Spanish amiga’s cake was so loaded with brandy, however, we couldn’t eat more than one bite. She shoveled all the cut pieces and the remaining cake into the box and took it back to the bakery the next day. Can you imagine? And they gave her her money back! This year, my gift is an aquarium. I always wanted one because I love to watch those little water jewels swimming around – so restful. And because I love to decorate, I can’t wait to set up the tank like a magical underwater garden.
    I wish you a happy birthday and a year filled with love, creative adventures and health. I love visiting your blog every day.

  70. What your brother said is very true. Constance’s gift is astoundingly beautiful and clever. I do not like attention on my birthday, sweetie brings me flowers but I tell everyone no gifts. It is more fun to get unexpected gifts throughout the year. I’m 8 months older than you. Last year a dear friend came over a few weeks after my birthday. I thought we were going brocante shopping. No,she brought champagne and food delicacies! It was so kind and generous of her and something I’ll never forget.

  71. i believe i spent it my birthday with my husband and our two closest friends. we always share dinner with them on our birthdays. this means we are guaranteed dinner with them four nights out of the year. 🙂
    all the trinkets are lovely and if picked i’d be honored to receive any of them…

  72. I turned 37 in November. My parents (who live close by) took our children and my husband took me for an overnight get-away. We had dinner and a movie with my husband’s sister and her husband, and then spent the night at a hotel down in the city. We had a late breakfast at a New York- style deli downtown – one of my favorite restaurants. Then we toured an old mansion that is now part of a university. A little Christmas shopping too. Wonderful weekend.
    You friends gift is priceless. How thoughtful and creative she is.
    I like the silver heart.
    But I mostly just like reading your blog. 🙂

  73. Happy, happy birthday, Corey! What a sweet little gift that cake is. I would have those slips of paper well-worn from continuous reading. 🙂
    Let’s see, last year’s birthday. It was June 16 and I, like you, turned 50. It was a perfect day, one filled with family, friends and birthday cake. What could be better than that?
    As for the tiny trinkets? I would let you choose. They are all very nice.

  74. Oh Corey!
    What a wonderful 50th birthday I had last July, I turned 50 and invited 25 beautiful women to attend a luncheon to celebrate my milestone. As my mother had passed over a year ago, she was present in the candle I lit to remember the first strong woman I would encounter in my life.
    My friends made up a game of questions about myself, there were a few small prizes, lovely gerbera daisies for each guest in pink and orange, the theme colors of the party.
    I ate a lovely lemon mousse as I was watching my weight and felt transported by my friends’ laughter and loving presence. This birthday party was the best gift that I ever gave myself.
    The second gift I would receive on this my jubilee year, would be the purchase of a small apartment in Provence.
    I as you are, am blessed.
    Denise

  75. Happy Birthday, Corey.
    (Do not enter my name, just wanted to wish you a happy, happy day with those you love who love you. What a thoughtful gift from Constance. She is one talented lady.)

  76. Happy 51 Corey! I turned 47 in October. My husband took me to our favorite anitque store, The Stage Stop, and let me pick out anything I wanted (price within reason of course). No cake for me though as I’m allergic to wheat and I have yet to find a good flour substitute 🙁

  77. Alena Moss

    Happy birthday Corey! I wish you all the best!
    I also want to thank you for your everyday
    writing on this blog.It connects so many people, it amazes me! I spend my last birthday in New York City. Tasted delicious strawberry cheesecake and walked in Central Park. Magical!
    Have a wonderful day ! Fifty one and fabulous!
    Yooppe!!!!!!

  78. Bonne Anniversaire, Corey!
    My last birthday, in October, was spent with my family – a relaxed evening of good food, laughter and presents – including a handmade breadboard, a breadmaker (which I’d asked for), the soundtrack to Pride and Prejudice and the accompanying book of music so I can play it on the piano. I turned 52.
    Your velvet cake is beautiful. And the sentiments inside are what send it up into the sublime!
    Lorrie

  79. Happy Birthday, Corey!
    Today is my daughter’s birthday, too! 🙂
    Blessings to you,
    ~Kim

  80. Happy Birthday Corey. I’m a daily reader of your blog. Your photos and stories are such a pleasure to read.
    My last birthday was in October and I’m 62.That makes you a young chickadee in my eyes 😉
    My birthday was spent with my hubby,son,DIL, granddaughter and grandson. We had chocolate cake~~~my favorite.
    Hubby gifted me with a lovely handmade wooden box with a country scene painted on it. I keep it in my studio and store my silver wire in it. It’s close at hand for making jewelry.
    If I’m lucky enough to be chosen in your drawing, I’m drawn to the lovely silver puffy heart.
    Hugs,
    Carolyn M.

  81. It was not what I expected my 38th b-day. I had planned family and friends to come out for food and fun. Mine is 12/31 so everyone needs a party, right. I even had fireworks! Then my MIL got sick and ended up in the hospital, that put a damper on it. Still I thought it could be a small gathering to at least welcome in the new year, but Husband was not in the mood for celabrating and would not give me an answer as to what he be up for with his Mom is the hospital. she did get out 2 day before, but he and his brother were trying to get every set up so she wouldn’t be alone at night and making sure she was getting balanced meals, etc. So everything else was put on hold. Now I blame my Parents(LOL) they alway made sure no matter what was going on you had your special day. My day was oh….. do you want to go out to dinner, can your parents watch the girls? It is 5:30pm mind you… he says well we can still call people over and have cake and ice cream….(what) We did go to dinner, my husband being the senseable one…askes for the gift certifate I had won and says they shouldn’t be to busy we can go there. So we did and my parents said they could watch the girls and we did have cake and ice cream with them. Next year it is going to be a big celebration ….I will still have the firework or maybe I will get more! Remeber Steve I don’t mind surprise parties and 40 is just around the corner!!!! LOLOLOL
    All did turn out good and I did have a good time.

  82. Happy Birthday to you, Corey. You deserve a wonderful celebration, after a long year of tribulations! May your heart sing.
    My day is January 28th; we are fellow Water Bearers.

  83. Leilani Bennett

    May I do something a little different and tell you about my 70th birthday coming up this year? To celebrate my first year cancer free my children and grands are flying in and throwing me a party on July 4! (My actual BD is the 3rd.) BBQ, balloons, the best margaritas in the world (fresh limes are the key), and my dearest loves and best friends. What a wonderful day it’s going to be. Frankly, just “being” is pretty damned wonderful but I like the parties too!
    I hope all of your birthdays are filled with love, joy and contenment!
    Oh yes, the heart ‘speaks to me’.

  84. Happy Birthday! That sweet cake is such a wonderful gift to be cherished! My last birthday (56) was spent in NYC with my husband. We drove into the city, had lunch, went to a camera store and bought my new camera. It is a wonderful camera and I was and am thrilled to have it. After that we went to a shop specializing in cupcakes and that was my birthday treat.
    Love your blog.

  85. I knew there was a reason I took off my diaper and danced a jig!!!!

  86. Happy Birthday Corey!
    The cake box is amazing, how lovely for your dad and friend to work together for such a great surprise!
    You’re generosity is beautiful! May your day be filled with more sweet memories and your year a grand one!
    As for me, well I will be 51 on Friday! That’s gift enough for me.

  87. Tamara Giselle

    On my last birthday, also 51st, I ordered myself a cake to my exact specifications. I tell you this simply because this is the first time I had done such a thing. I usually abhor my birthday as I don’t necessarily like being the center of attention and this day seems to cause the attention to be drawn to one’s self. In the past I preferred to honor my parents who brought me into this world, such as send my mother roses, but since my parents are both now gone I decided that I would have cake, and I ordered, bought and paid for it myself. Ate most of it too! I did share it with my family as well. I am not sure what this says about me, but you asked and I told.
    That chocolate velvet cake is about the most divine little cake I have ever seen. What a special gift for a very special lady. Some people are so incredibly thoughtful. They are inspire me to be more thoughtful. I may just borrow this little cake idea.
    Happy Day of Birth Corey!

  88. Hi corey Haven’t commented lately but read you every morning with my first cuppa. Love your blog! This one made me laugh and think I needed to post a comment since i just had my birthday. My baby bird (dear daughter) traveled home from college to be with me for my day…here’s how it ended up. She lost her iphone when we were out having fun shopping, on her way home that evening she hit a pot hole and had a blow out and had to be rescused off the interstate by her brother who would get her 2 new tires next morning and she’d be on her way again to her home. That night she woke me, so very very sick with food poisoning from the raw fish she ate when we went for Japanese for my birthday. And all she wanted was to be the good daughter and come home for her mama’s birthday for me. Poor child her trip was a disaster this time and my birthday was a blur with all the negative things that cropped in to ATTEMPT to ruin it…nothing could ruin it for me she was home, sick but home to see us. Her visits are few from school, but they are always a treat even this one was special to her mama. The blessing in it all (ther always is one if you look for it) was the tire thing perhaps happened so she would have to come back home that night and be here for me to take care her when she was so ill with poisoning instead of being all alone and extremely ill.

  89. What a lovely gift you were given. A real treasure. I would treasure anything from you.
    Happy 51st Birthday! May you day be full of love, laughter, and great joy!

  90. THAT IS THE MOST BEAUTIFUL B-DAY CAKE EVER. HOW TRULY SPECIAL.
    HUGS FROM MAINE
    http://sophie4me.blogspot.com/

  91. Corey ~ Wishing you a delightful birthday filled with love and celebration!
    Your chocolate cake gift is exquisite! What delightful prizes you have picked out for your readers! The French Antique Estampe is my favorite!
    My 51st birthday was just two weeks ago. I spent a quiet day, stitching, reading lovely British decorating magazines, watched a favorite lovely movie (A Room with a View) and snuggled in the armchair with my two kitties! Throughout the day, I enjoyed phone calls from my children who all live in another state. So, it was a quiet day, but enjoyable.

  92. Happy Birthday to you Corey!
    Your blog is a pleasure as usual..such beautiful photography.
    Enjoy your special day….
    Lorelei

  93. Cher Coco,
    Sending you a birthday wish from San Francisco.
    oxo, Terteenie
    PS Constance’s gift is genius.

  94. Marina Gruenman

    When my birthday comes on December 21st it always seems overshadowed by Someone else’s! By then people are harried and too distracted by the approach of the other big day to give mine much thought and even though I spend the year thinking about something special to do on my day, I never do much of anything. Of course, I disappoint myself. This year, however, proved that joy and birthday celebrations can be found in the most unexpected places when we least expect it. Shortly before Christmas, my sister’s husband died suddenly. Within hours I was on a plane from my home in New Jersey to Augusta, Georgia to be with her.I planned to stay a week but then twice changed my flight finally returning home after the new year.Needless to say I spent my birthday, Christmas and New Year’s Day away from home, my husband and children. It was a sad time and my sister’s heartbreak was difficult to witness
    but I found her daily surrounded by the love and presence of exceptionally kind and caring friends who constantly brought food and cooked for us and kept us laughing and busy. On the 21st, like every day some people were stopping by, but in the end maybe 20 had gathered, not all of whom I had met before, some bringing food and beverage, and one kind lady who I met for the first time that evening presented me with a birthday cake she had baked. By the time everyone had gathered around the table to sing Happy Birthday and demand a birthday speech, I was overwhelmed by the feeling of fellowship and by the kindness of strangers
    who already considered me a friend because they loved my sister.It was one of the best birthdays I’ve ever had because I had no expectations and nothing to disappoint me. Although I can’t remember how I spent most of my birthdays I will never forget my 57th!

  95. Happy birthday!!! Oh my goodness, I LOVE the silver heart!
    tina (from GW)

  96. I’ve been thinking of you a lot of late… but especially today! Happy Birth Day dear friend!!! You, and Constance, and so many others from bloglandia make the world a sweet place indeed! I just love seeing that little cake and knowing that the love notes sing to you!
    My last birth day was my 50th. Our garden was filled with friends I love and cherish, including a dear friend who was my babysitter when I was seven!!! I did eat cake and drank champagne and filled up on love and appreciation for those who touch my life and heart.
    That birthday marked such a turning point for me and has brought me more fully into a new phase of my life. I feel older, wiser, and free in a way I’ve never before experienced.
    All my love to you Corey… XO 🙂 XO

  97. I believe I am going to be 56 this year; have to stop and count the years. (I think I am now counting by decades—it’s just not that relevant anymore). When my family was younger and before school schedules began to complicate things, we would celebrate everyone’s birthday with an outing to places like Muir Woods, Stinson Beach, SF, and Lake Tahoe and the like, all within an easy drive. My favorite birthday was spent cavorting with my little ones (then 2 and 7) on Daffodil Hill—yes, my birthday is in March. Now we celebrate with family dinners that culminate with the arrival of one of 2 traditional cakes: the deep, dark, gooey, chocolate ‘Douglas Cake’ or an ‘Old World Chocolate Spice Cake’. These are so much a part of our celebrations that everyone has mastered the recipes. With so many chefs it often comes down to ‘baking rights’. I will be requesting the OWCSC as always —it’s perfect with champagne in the evening and with coffee in the morning.
    It’s morning in California as I write— a splendid day is slipping into evening in France. Happy Birthday, Corey! Thank you for your daily gifts.
    PS. I would just like to echo Leilani: “just being is pretty damned wonderful!”

  98. Happy Birthday! I turned 51 in July. Much like you I had spent the year caretaking ill family member(s) so I wasn’t really thinking much about celebrating. Much to my surprise my husband arranged a little family party in our backyard. It was a lovely evening.

  99. Happy Birthday Corey!

  100. My last Birthday slipped by quietly almost unnoticed until I got the ,call. “Hey Kid, Happy Birthday!” which was quickly followed up by his singing Happy Birthday to me. A miracle really, that a lonely little girl now all grown up who barely knew her father and the gruff man on the other end would connect over the distance of a phone line. Not only were there Birthday wishes but the gruff guy was actually singing to her. The road has been rocky in restoring this relationship but little by little it is happening. He kidded me about my age, sadly I am not sure he really knew how old I was, 45, not the 40 he guessed. There was no cake only my favorite ice cream, butter pecan. There were no candles but Birthday wishes were certainly coming true because he remembered her and that was her fondest wish come true!

  101. How silly of me, I forgot to wish you the most happiest Birthday ever!

  102. ps Corey.. I am just popping by to say that I love all your gift-aways, however..please don’t put me in the draw. To read about your life is enough for me. You inspire me to be a more positive person and to find gratitude that I am cancer free… and wanted to say that I read some comments here and you are one much loved lady in blog world… and that Brother Matthew’s comment made me cry. xoxo

  103. Wow, Constance is a thoughtful, thoughtful lady. What a blessing! And I’ve gotta say I like Kirsten’s style . . .anyone who chooses her birthday cake based on its going with both coffee AND champagne is all right in my book!!
    I’m so touched by most of the stories here; especially the lady who was with her sister during the loss of her husband, and her sister’s friends gave her a birthday.
    Happy Birthday Corey and thank you for all the beauty and thoughtfulness and COLOR you bring into all our lives!

  104. HAPPY BIRTHDAY Corey!!!!!!!!!!!!!
    You know, I wish you all the best!
    I turned 29 last September and one of my favorite birthday gifts was a plane ticket to Barcelona, which revealed itself as one of my fav cities.
    Wish you have a FAB wonderous gift today, on top of the friendship you have all over you.
    Love*

  105. Happy, happy, happiest of birthdays Corey! My birthday was 1/23. When I arrived home from work dear husband JS had a dozen long stem red roses, art magazines & books and symphony tickets waiting for me. It was all so lovely after such a hard year here ourselves I felt as if I was floating all weekend long. I still feel as if I’m floating a bit. To be loved by the one you love ~ what a treasure. What a priceless gift.

  106. Happy Birthday, Corey! In two weeks I’ll be having my 34th birthday. Hey, Erin mine’s the 16th too :)! I don’t really remember last year’s too well. Every year for the past four years I’ve been in search of a prime rib dinner. Yet, something happens every year, and I’ve yet to have it. Once again, I SWEAR, I will be having prime rib on my birthday.
    However, I did get a wonderful gift. My son was born on February first last year. I don’t know what I’ll be getting this year, but prime rib will be involved!
    May this be a blessed year filled with love, magic, friends, and family for all of us.

  107. last year on my birthday, my husband and i planned to take the day off together. my work is pretty flexible so it’s normally not a problem to take a day off once in a while. when i asked, i was told there was a meeting at noon i had to attend. which was ridiculous, our company is very small and very informal, and i’m not at all important enough to have to go to meetings. so i grumbled a lot to my husband and planned on going home after the meeting. when i arrived at work that morning, i was told there was another meeting at 10. this was too much, even for our haphazard company. but i just set my sights on my afternoon off and tried to ignore it. at the end of our first meeting, the phone rang and the person answering it said my husband’s name and had a cryptic conversation. which made me suspicious, along with some other small clues that were starting to add up. our noon meeting started and my husband came in with a european style cake (my favorite) and a balloon – camouflage so no one could see it, because really, i hate being the center of attention. but it was a good surprise, with enough hints that i wasn’t badly surprised by it, although i would never have thought of such a thing. my husband really worked hard to arrange all that, which was way cool of him. and then we went home 🙂 so it was a good day after all.

  108. Happy Birthday Cory, I hope this birthaday will be wonderful, and may this truly be a blessed year for you! On my last birthday (my 53rd)my daughter made me a birthday cake and we went to the theatre to see a musical production. I felt very blessed. You are a sweetheart to have a giveaway for your birthday, my favorite is the vintage silver heart which would be so wonderful for my heart collection. Bless you!

  109. Janet Maddison

    My birthday was a few weeks ago and we were still in France travelling down to Nice to catch the flight home.I had an awful ear infection and had been supplied a whole pharmacy of medicine by the French health system.The medicine,leaving France and the stress of a possible very uncomfortable flight made me grumpy.We had planned to stay in Aix de Prov and I am always the co pilot,but we missed the turn and the light was fading so we ended up in Avignon.I felt miserable,it was cold and wet and my dear patient husband went in search of accommodation.
    He found the most wonderful villa in the middle of the old city.One entered a non descript door and climbed up several flights of stairs.It was like coming home.A fire,a warm welcome by the charming owner,a romantic bedroom with all the attention to detail,antique linen,mohair blankets…
    I roused myself determined to celebrate!
    we went to a typical regional restaurant run by the same family for 45 yrs and when they found out it was my birthday,out came a little cake with a candle..and yes I did have Champagne and anti biotics and survived my 58th birthday!That night restored me enough to get on the plane for the long trip back to Australia.

  110. Happy Birthday to one of the most inspirational bloggers I read! What a wonderful birthday treat Constance made for you. I spent my birthday this September walking along the Oregon Coast picking up shells and being in awe of the beauty of it all. Cheers.

  111. What an absolutely beautiful gift! Let’s see …my birthday is coming up and I have only one fantasy! To spend the day …quiet, reflecting with my true love by my side. I need nothing, I want nothing …I just want to spend a quiet day with my one true love! As we gain more years our desires and wants change. This year …I only want to spend a quiet day with my true love! No fancy parties, no fancy cake …just a quiet day reflecting on life and love.

  112. Happy Birthday Corey,
    Beautiful photos of an exquisite keepsake.
    My 40th was spent wandering the streets of London with my husband showing my three gorgeous sons were their mum and dad first met.

  113. Happy Birthday, Corey! I turned 40 last month! My dear sister, who lives in England, flew me over to celebrate together. We spent my birthday enjoying tea “Jane Austen style” in Bath. A memorable birthday indeed!
    Julie M
    P.S. I love the locket:)

  114. On my last birthday I hit one of those ‘monumental’ ages. One I was not looking forward to. In fact, I dread all birthdays, but this one was an exceptional dread. Husband hit the same one earlier in the year. He wanted a party, but only if I participated. That stipulation meant that a party was out. I wanted to forget, and that is what I did (or at least tried to do). No party. No cake. No gifts (except for checks from Mom and MIL that I only just recently cashed because they were hounding me). Just a day like any other. Except that I took the day off work to get some maintenance done on my car, and that took longer than expected. Was the day what I expected?…I guess so, since I didn’t expect anything. I was most happy on the day after my birthday because there are 365 days until I have to deal with it again. I guess you can tell I am not one to celebrate my own birthday. Oh, but I did receive mostly nice cards, some even handmade. I liked that.
    Your gift was incredible and such a wonderful gesture of friendship. Thanks so much for your giveaway. I love the French antique estampe, but all your treasures are most beautiful!

  115. I can hardly remember my last birthday, it was so painful and sad.
    My birthday is on April 19th. Last year, after a time of it, we finally came to grips with the realization that our beloved cat Sophie should be put to sleep. So on April 13th we gently wrapped her in a warm fluffy towel and took her for her last ride in the car. On the way to the Vets office I can still remember seeing her ears perk up as she looked out the window at the scenery zipping by. We stayed with her and soothed her and cooed “I love you” in her ear until her eyes softly closed and she took her last breath.
    For days after that I felt in a fog. My birthday came and I simply did not want to celebrate.
    This year will be better, I’m sure.
    Corey, all of the treasures are very sweet and if you pick my name, I’d be happy with any of them.
    And Happy Birthday to you. I know last year was so difficult for you. Reading each post filled my heart with sadness such that sometimes I thought it would burst. I hope you are beginning to come back to life, it seems you are if these posts tell anything. Again, take care and Happy Birthday.

  116. Happy Birthday, Corey, and may this be a wonderfully happy year ahead for you.
    My last birthday was my 56th. I worked, had a quiet dinner with my partner, and opened some thoughtful and lovingly chosen little gifts from him. I don’t have anything special planned for this year (March 18th).
    I would love the beautiful silver heart.

  117. Dear Corey ,
    Better late than never :0)…
    Happy Birthday to the Lady of Inspiration !

  118. becky up the hill

    Hi Corey, last year I turned 54. We went to Monterey, Ca. We were down in the old part of town. Took a stroll. We came upon the San Carlos Cathedral, circa 1770 which is in the midst of being renovated. It was serendipitous. People were lined up putting on hard hats for the last tour of the day. We filed in, like it was a plan, I think it was, only not ours, thank-you God. It was fascinating. Here is the link to the church. It wasn’t on the agenda for my birthday getaway, but it ended up being the hi-light. http://www.sancarloscathedral.net/

  119. Last year on my birthday my sweet sister and I went to a concert in a small one horse town in Nevada, it was alot of fun. And we also had some yummy authentic carne asada tacos at a little taco stand. I like all three offerings.

  120. Bonne Anniversaire!
    I am a long time lurker, first time commenter. My last birthday was spent on the remote coast of North Carolina at the beach I used to visit in childhood and my husband and I spent the time with both our sets of parents. It was always a dream of mine to go there on my birthday, and luckily we made it happen this year. We arrived on my birthday to our first oceanfront stay and I couldn’t think of a lovlier place I could have been to celebrate another year. Good memories, thanks for letting me share.
    Receiving anything from France would just make my day, so any of the trinkets for me!

  121. Constance is the sweetest friend! What a delight!
    happy HAPPY birthday Corey!
    x..x
    steph

  122. Happy Birthday, Corey!!! What a lovely surprise from an equally lovely and sweet friend. I’ve been on the receiving end of one of Constance’s birthday gifts and parties. This past summer she threw a birthday party for me during a bloggergal get-together in Pennsylvania. We all dressed up like Groovy Divas – I wore a gold and black spandex bodysuit from the 70’s with a black sash around my head, topped with a pink birthday cone-hat. After the candlelit dinner and before the divine birthday cake (which Constance baked herself) was served, a silver tray full of candles was passed around to everyone and each person made a birthday wish for me. Not one to cry in public, I found it hard to speak with the huge lump in my throat. It was such a generous gesture. Constance is a sparkling light in this world – as are YOU, Corey. I hope that you have the best birthday this year. Hip hip hooray!

  123. My last birthday was my 60th and I spent the day with my wonderful daughter. It was a special day for me because I never expected to reach. At 44 I had double mastectomies but I beat the beast, at 55 I was 24 stone, with hypertension, asthma, diabetes, fibromyalgia and arthritis so bad I had to use a scooter and 14 months ago I had a heart attack. But this birthday I am 12 stone lighter,my diabetes is under control, my blood pressure is down and after a new knee I can do most anything. So don’t worry about 51, the years ahead will be great, you never know what is around the corner, best wishes, Margaret

  124. My husband arranged a birthday party for me, complete with a dark chocolate cake to die for! One of his co-workers is an Italian-trained pastry chef, and she baked and decorated the cake. He also sneaked into my email and asked everyone to send a birthday card or email. He checked early each morning, and printed and then deleted the mails. He gave it all to me as a package…and it made me cry! Oh, btw, I turned 60 last year.

  125. I also want to wish you a happy birthday, and a year filled with joy! 🙂

  126. A Coronet…a gateaux…a chapeaux all in one!
    Bravo Corey and Bonne Anniversaire
    xoxo

  127. What a beautiful, heartfelt gift!
    My birthday is on the 4th of July. Last year, my mom won the rights to a table for four at a local club they belong to. The Club sits atop the mountain ridge and is THE perfect spot for watching the annual fireworks display. Dinner was delicious, there was cake and fireworks for dessert.
    DD2’s 21st birthday is today, so if my name if drawn, I would like to give her the piece with the purple stone….and yes, we had cake for dessert at lunch. Is today your birthday also?

  128. What a wonderful birthday gift you received. The velvet cake is just lovely.
    I don’t really remember a lot from my birthday last year. I remember feeling let down. No one at work remembered so the work day wasn’t anything special. I know I had a celebration with my family but I can’t remember receiving any special. This year is the big 50th birthday for me. It happens next month. I’m not exactly dreading turning 50 but I’m not exactly jumping up and down either. I just find it hard to believe that I’ve reached this milestone.
    Ariane

  129. Best wishes for a happy year, Corey! I’ve just turned 52, and I’m so happy that I don’t have to say “j’ai cinquante-et-un ans” anymore (“j’ai cinquante-deux ans” rolls off the tongue much more easily).

  130. Happy 51 Corey! You have so inspired my cousin and I – we both began our own blogs not long ago – have a peek at mine!(www.vadoavanti.wordpress.com)
    I can’t remember what I did on my last birthday except ‘celebrate’ 55, so it must not have been very earth shattering! If you wish, you can send me anything your little heart desires – you have already sent SO much to inspire me since the summertime.
    Buon compleanno!
    diane

  131. Linda Collins

    Hi Corey,
    A very happy birthday wish. l have been reading your blog for a long time now, this is the first time l have commented, and just love checking in each day to see what you have been up to. You have been an inspiration to me and many others.
    My birthday is on the 23rd December, and last year l turned 49. As a child, my birthday was always low key, and once overlooked as we traveled interstate to visit Grandparents. As an adult l decided that my birthday needed to be embraced and celebrated. So each year after breakfast in bed with my dear hubby ( of 30 years) l head to the hairdressers for a cut and color, shop for some essential food items, then my aunt, who’s birthday is the 24th Dec, always comes for an afternoon visit and cuppa. As evening arrives, my 3 beautiful children, and all my very special friends arrive and we spend an evening together sharing in the joy of the season. Oh and by the way, they all bring gifts, and each year it surprises me how well they know me with their selection.
    Happy birthday hugs to you,
    Linda.
    P.S. l would love the brooch with the purple stone.

  132. Happy Birthday, Corey!
    Constance’s gift is of such rare preciousness, it warms my heart that here are people like you and her out there.

    Regarding my birthday:
    I spent a week in Salzburg, with friends, had the loveliest afternoon at Cafe’ Tomaselli with my daughter, toured the museum, shared lovely dinner(s) with friends. The most exciting birthday gift was a hike up a glacier to have a cappuccino at 10.000 feet (only in Austria! *g*) and a nightly walk up the Mönchsberg past the Nonnberg nunnery of Sound of Music fame.

  133. My last birthday was when I turned 55. Was not looking forward to it. Thought I would never in my life be old as 55 (thought that when i was 20). When I turned 55 many magical things came into my life. I retired from my job of 35 years without a backwards glance…stayed home and just love my life,how did I ever work that many years. My life is wonderful and would never trade turning 55 again.

  134. Linda Hanselman

    That is the most darling box. Can you post some more close-up pictures of it, I would love to try to make one. The petite gateau would make a darling house warming present. Both of your hearts are precious and would be beautifully married on one chain. Happy Birthday.

  135. This past November I observed (smile) my 50th birthday with a family dinner at a local Japanese resturant. My daughter’s best friend was in town, so she was a part of our little party. My son gave me a new and so very soft bathrobe from Bath and Body shop and my daugher gave me a framed photo taken of her and me at the beach last summer. In the photo she’s in this little bikini with a tan, smiling a big ol’ smile and I am kissing her on her left cheek. This really wasn’t a spectecular birthday, but I was happy, because a year ago I lost 65 lbs. after becoming a diabetic. Shortly before the diagnosis, I had surgery for a cochlear implant and had enjoyed a year of hearing all kinds of sounds including the ticking of a clock and the rustle of leaves. So, my 50th birthday was small and sweet and I borrow a line from Robert Frost’s poem “Stopping in the Woods on a Snowy Evening”… I have miles to go before I sleep.

  136. aw. i think this story is so sweet. you weave good and life lessons elegantly.
    i also just turned 51. my hair has been bleached blond for many years. however, after my birthday i started going to the gym and i’m getting muscles! plus feeling better.

  137. I had another birthday this past Monday, February 2. It was a quiet low key kind of mellow birthday. Some cards and a few gifts from family and friends, a day at work.
    I no longer mind birthdays or getting older. I plan to retire later this year and look forward to a new life with excitement and anticipation of good things to come.
    I enjoyed my day with peaceful serenity. I hope your birthday was joyous.

  138. What a wonderful surprise. What a nice lady!!
    Happy Birthday again Corey!
    My birthday was last June, the weather is always nice here then. We go out for a lovely dinner and sometimes a movie that I want to see. Since it was summer, I had strawberry shortcake, not birthday cake.
    I always try to eat something on my birthday that I don’t normally eat(because it’s bad for you, like French Fries)
    My husband always gives me beautiful flowers on my birhtday.
    Have a lovely day/night
    Rosemary

  139. Wishing you a very Happy Birthday, Corey! Hope your day is as special as you. **hugs**
    What a lovely thoughtful gift from your friend! The cake looks divine but to have all those messages pushes it over the top.
    At 51, I’m still blessed to be able to celebrate birthdays like a kid. My last birthday was filled with cake and candles, surrounded by family and feeling like a queen for the day!
    xo,
    Lynda

  140. A lovely, melancholy post — what a thoughtful, good friend, but I’m so sorry your birthday also has sad connotations …. I guess it’s why we add salt to our cookie dough (etc.), the bitter highlights the sweet.
    I found you courtesy of GardenWeb (rmkitchen — thank you for your kind words about Li’l Bit), and am so glad you’ve posted there and linked us to your blog — I’d never have found you otherwise! A treat, a real treat, and I’m a bona fide chocoholic.
    Fun to learn about you — your photography is fabulous.
    Happy Birthday, Joyeux Anniversaire, Omedetou Gozaimasu.
    xo

  141. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Corey!! I hope you will have a great B-Day! 🙂 Y

  142. Happy Birthday Dear Corey,
    “Thousands of candles can be lit from a single candle, and the life of the candle will not be shortened. Happiness never decreases by being shared.” Prince Gautama Siddharta
    Thank you for sharing your light!

  143. Happy Birthday Beautiful Blogging Friend! I just turned 40 a few weeks ago. My Mom and husband threw a SURPRISE party for me with about 45 guests. When I walked in the door and saw everyone I turned right around and walked back out! Could not believe it. We had a wonderful night. I will never forget it. Blessings, Kimberly P.S. If I am lucky enough to win then you can surprise me with anything! 🙂

  144. Happy Birthday Corey!
    (((((hugs)))))))
    Kim

  145. Happy Birthday my sweet French friend. My last birthday was the big 5/0 I told my husband he had better not give me a party. I would be furious if he did, did he listen NO! Know one has been able to surprise me I always find out this time I didn’t have a clue. I had invited Corey and my neighbor for dinner. Neighbors husband was cooking us abalone. Even when my friend from Alaska came through the door still didn’t think anything of it. But when I saw a friend bringing in a guitar I thought what the hell has he done. He had invited 50 people! Everybody I could think of was here. Even 3 of my old boyfriends came over. It was a very nice party. I was even serenaded too (Alan Jackson “Remember When”. It was a great night and will never be forgotten. Thank you husband!
    Happy 95th Birthday Grandma Dodo xoxoxo

  146. Moira Schneider

    Hi Corey,
    First time I have tried in this new format to write to you other than email – Many Happy Returns for your Birthday amidst abundant Blessings as you bless so many with your beautiful blog. Your Blog is so addictive for ones like me with a busy life and refreshment at the end of the days. We share the same month for our Birthdays – that is special to me. A couple of years ago my husband and I shared our 50th by having a Pizza night where around 80 guests came and made and cooked their own Pizza’s – you can imagine the fun and much talking and laughter in the lines around table and oven. One day we may get to share our birthday month together with a French tea!!!Much love Corey and yes I love the vintage heart you have posted up. Moira

  147. Happiest of birthdays to you,dear Corey!
    Last year, in June I turned 51. And I must confess that I feel that my birthday is the best day of the year! Bigger than Christmas cause it’s my special day. My darling husband baked me a lovely chocolate cake. We shared champagne and strawberries. He gave me a peony bush and a beautiful necklace. He made my favorite dinner. And he took me out for ice cream. It was a delightful day!
    And I felt like the world’s most special person!

  148. Kristy Cramer

    Corey I so love your posts. Every thing you write touches me in one way or another. Thank you for taking time to enrich our lives with each picture and post. You are quirky and quaint!
    Please send me the silver pendant! I will cherish it! From Oregon,
    Kristy

  149. Happy Birthday!
    I hope you had a special wonderful day…and that hat, oh my! It’s beautiful!

  150. Mary Ellen

    Happy Birthday to you! Reading your blog makes me nostalgic – remembering sweetnesses in my life that are like velvet and cake both! I love the feeling of your words, the pictures they create in my mind….
    I turned 50 this year, and felt celebrated by friends. The evening out was with my sister and her beautiful children, who came to the restaurant where we had dinner and my nephew serenaded us and the other diners by playing classical guitar…It was a funny group of nine friends that do not ordinarily gather together, so I felt very special as the reason they were around the table. I also felt special because I was given a birthday crown and glow in the dark necklace and earrings to wear for the occasion. To commemorate my fiftieth birthday one clever friend created 50 puns with my name. Very funny!
    The day of my birthday I was surprised to see a flock of 50 plastic flamingos on my front lawn….and my children made the day very special, of course.
    Thank you for sharing your heart with us. Many happy returns of the day!

  151. My last birthday I turned 43. I was born on Thanksgiving Day so my hubby makes my day special because I spend so much time cooking for family. This last time I got a lovely cameo broach with a trip to get my nails and toes painted my favorite purple. He also gave me the most beautiful card which meant so much as he is not alway able to find words for his heart. I had chocolate pie with dream whip on top and tea of course too. I hope you day was just beautiful. I think of you as such a dear friend and I hate when I miss a day of checkig in. May God bless you with many more birthdays.

  152. On my last birthday I had to work. When I got home my husband was working late, the kids had other things to do and places to go, so I sat home alone. That’s OK. I’ve had a lot of birthdays. I’m 57. I’d love to win anything! How is your mom doing? Is she fine now?

  153. I just finished having a “birthday celebration”…at my age…60-something…is a celebration! My first b-day celebration was spent with my kids and grandkids…my daughter Cheryl fixed me dinner. And on my actual birthday date, January 19th, my Aunt fixed me dinner!

  154. I forgot to say…hope YOU had a marvelous birthday!

  155. For my birthday my husband made an appointment for a facial and a massage.
    It was heavenly. I turned 49. What a generous thing for you to do Corey.
    Thanks

  156. Oh, I forgot to wish you a Happy Birthday Corey. Many happy returns of the day.

  157. Happy Birthday Miss Corey. You are so cool. I remember the start of your journey last year to your father. Your actions and words taught me so much and hopefully helped me to be a better person.
    Denise

  158. Dear Corey
    “Success is like reaching an important birthday and finding you’re exactly the same.”
    Audrey Hepburn
    “Each day comes bringing it’s own gifts — untie the ribbons,” Unknown author
    “On growing older–One must wait until evening to see how splendid the day has been.” Will Rodgers
    Wishing you peace and contentment in being who you are… Joanny

  159. HI Corey,
    I had my 52 birthday in November and it was a great birthday- there were so many little things that happened that made it lovely- we had ice cream cake and I spent it with my close friends and family – There were some nice gifts but the best gift was being with family and friends. My friend bought me some lovely Panda finger puppets that are perfect for my kindergarten class- This girl still needs toys …
    Hope you had a great day and I loved your chocolate velvet cake..
    Regards,
    Anna

  160. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, Corey!
    I turned 57 on December 21st. Not the best time to have a birthday. My daughter and her friend prepared the most beautiful tea. I felt so special.
    If I win, I would love one of the hearts to add to my hearts necklace. I have a necklace that I have been adding heart charms to for a long time.
    ~elaine~

  161. Happy Birthday Corey!!!!
    so beautiful gift!!! what a wonderful idea your friends had!
    I love birthday parties but not for me….the best birthdays to me where at the beach house (my birthday is in September so it was always school holidays…5 or 6 girl neighbours friends will gather at home to make a cake…each one! so we ended with 6 different cakes that we ate completely…this sharing and laughs while cooking where the best present!

  162. I turned 40 last year but felt really good about it (especially with my four month old baby on my hip!). Hubby surprised me with 10 days in Cancun with our little ones. We had a great time driving there, taking photos and movies along the way and seeing beautiful Mexico.
    Happy 51 Corey!!
    _____________________
    Hi MissChris
    We have got to meet. Aren’t you in France now?
    C

  163. Chere Corey,
    I stumbled upon your lovely site upon my return from a special birthday trip. Merci beaucoup pour les photos et les couleurs!
    For my 40th birthday and my 5th year remission celebration, I joined a small group of strangers in Christ to visit two orphanages a la Chine during Christmas and New Year holidays. My original plan was to visit my ever beloved Paris to celebrate life anew. Plan got changed last minute, however, in respond to a call from the depth of my heart.
    As I was sitting on the “Oriental Express”, I would like to imagine, speeding through the untouched landscape de la Chine and listening to chansons francais on my ipod, I was grateful for everything God has given me. Juste mon Dieu et moi……en ce moment.
    Life is short, could be trying and even seems impossible at times. Bless Him and kiss each day, rain or shine. Bon Anniversaire!
    Falling madly in love with France….from CA,
    Catherine
    _____________________
    Hi Catherine
    What a lovely tale, I could imagine it as you told it.
    Where di you go in China? I would love to do something like that…. How did you make it happen?
    I am glad to hear you are on this side of cancer.
    C

  164. Dearest Corey…Happy Birthday!!!
    Didn’t do anything exciting on my last birthday(43rd)…just another day in the life. But looking forward to my 50th!
    (the velvet cake is sooo adorable)

  165. All lucky people should be born in February 🙂 Both my son and I were born this month.
    Last year was my 35th. My dear husband, feeling bad for all the birthdays he missed, baked me a cake and took my to the symphony…I was a lucky girl indeed!
    __________________
    Happy Birthday to you and your son this month!!

  166. Hi Corey, What a great gift and the timing couldn’t have been better. My birthdays are largely unmemorable with the exception of a tragedy which I will not share with you rather, I wish you the best of birthdays and thank you for your wonderful humor and daily insights. I look forward to reading your blog every day.
    ________________
    Dear Cathy
    May that memory be filled with light and peace.
    C

  167. Hi Corey.. I hope its not too late to wish you Happy Birthday and many happy returns for another 51 years to come! Bliss! So glad that you enjoy your birthday celebration with your love ones!
    °°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°
    Hi Fitty
    Thank you!
    C

  168. So Corey you you share your birthday with a special day of mine.4th feb is the day I first kissed my lovely husband.That was 21 years ago.They still taste as sweet.x
    ———————–
    Hi Kristy
    I knew the fourth was special. Now I know it is!
    How are those darling little children of yours?
    They have the most expressive faces.
    C

  169. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, COREY.
    And many many many returns of the day.
    xxoo
    _____________
    Merci Colette
    If any of you are looking for swet charming one of a kind gifts go check out Colette’s creations.
    C

  170. Hello,
    This is such a fantastic gift you got from Constance! Love it!
    ~ Gabriela ~
    __________________
    Hi Gabriela
    Welcome to Tongue in Cheek.
    C

  171. Happy Birthday!!! Sorry I missed it, I was being a blog-veg and didn’t do much other than post the last few days.
    It sounds like you had a lovely Bday though.
    I think last year for my birthday, I just went to dinner with my parents. I’m the only one in my family that has a birthday in March. So it pretty much slides by unnoticed.

  172. Happiest of birthday wishes to you! I spent my birthday last August camping in the mountains of Washington state with my partner and our son. A glorious glorious way to spend the day. Nothing like opening presents in the woods. If I were so lucky as to be a winner of one of these lovelies I choose the little silver brooch though any one would be wonderful.

  173. Belated Happy Birthday Corey! I have missed a lot of your post already! May you have more wonderful and blessed years to come!
    I’d also like post my comment to this thread about birthdays.. Last year my birthday was uneventful. I slept all day since I work at night and just woke up earlier than usual.Can you imagine a birthday spent in a mall ? Movie,coffee shop and a burger. I even bought my own cake (pistachio mini cake) and ate it with my beau. Well, the latter made it a bit speacial <:o)

  174. What a truly sweet gift – that Constance – she is a sweetheart!

  175. tamara Riley

    The sun rose in seven shades orange lifting above the harbor and out into the day. All the heat from our hearts left on Rue Cardinale blended into a soft shade of amber. Empty, I stood gazing out as if you would know I was right there in between the tangerine and the autumn. For you could see me giggling in the sunset, smelling the dryness in the air and whispering……Happy Birthday friend!
    Tamara
    —————–Hi Tamara
    I saw you full of sunshine! Thanks.
    C

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