Hey Mom,

Happy Birthday, a bit late.   I'm glad it was a work day for me so I didn't have time to focus on your absence, just enough time to think about you and appreciate our time together.  George called - just checking in and remembering what day it was.  He was a little sad, I could hear it in his voice.  I know you two were not as close the last few years, but he called to think about & remember you on your day.  He continues to ask about Louie who has never come home.  He likes to think about him having found another family to live with, which is a nice way to think about it.  It has been very painful without him - he was such a cuddler - and I miss that.

It has always been difficult getting you something for your birthday, and it still is.  However, I decided that I could check in on some of your friends, so  I called Mary Rae for you.  It was nice to chat with her.  She knew it was your birthday - she wasn't sure where the email came from but I think it was a Facebook email.  She asked about your roses and all sorts of things she remembered about you - from the garden to your grandkids.  You had a good friend in her, but I think you knew that.

You won't believe it, but San Diego is finally having a summer like you would remember and of course, everyone here is just beside themselves - it is too hot!  It really has been pretty warm, but it feels like summer.  Since it is warm here, the Valley is extremely hot, of course.  George said that on Monday one of the kids parents at school said it was 113 degrees.  Now that is toasty!

Well, it is time for bed.  Just thinking about you - wish you were here.