Well, yes, I did hope to let this one slip by, but I guess that's what sisters are for!!! Thanks, bet!!**BG**

And, THANK YEW, to YEW ALL for the wonderful wishes and , er...comments. LOL.

It does feel wonderful to be here. I keep reminding myself of where I was a year ago, unable to do much, waiting for a new aortic valve and then I think "Wow, look at me now?!" I am blessed and full of Gratitude, esp. for the love and support of this incredible place and its members. Thank you all so very much.

Rick Fielding was the first, I think, to say Mudcat was a place where we find old friends we'd never met, or something like that (help me out here, Spaw?). That's exactly how I feel. I love you all and cannot wait to meet all of you I can at the Getaway.

So far, the day has been great. Went out with three handsome gentlemen, my brother, my son, and my grandson, to some gardening places. Bought a couple of houseplants and some beautiful bells from India. Tonight, Rog is cooking pasta in olive oil with shrimp, my request.

The very BEST B-day present happened on Saturday, though. My youngest daughter, Rue, had sort of disowned her brother for the past 2.5 years. This Saturday, after he'd put about 80 hours of work into the house we just bought which she is moving into, they met and had a talk and ALL IS WELL!!! This was a huge relief to both Rog and me as it was causing a lot of stress and dis-tress (okay, being redundant.:-) Anyway, it's one of the best presents I've ever received and I am Gratefull. It's a GOOD YEAR, FOLKS, thanks for being a very important part of it!!

luvyakat