March 14, 2022

Zsofia's brow was furrowed. "Momma, we know Siku and Dad always had a blueprint for how to celebrate your birthday...sometimes even a week's worth of celebration plans. Tomorrow is the day and I am here to admit none of us has a clue. We have lots of things we have eliminated...like a big party, or your going out to a fancy restaurant, or even a ride and a picnic. It seems like it was much easier in days before we worried about you getting COVID and your being leashed to the oxygen hose. We don't have anything exciting planned and your day is mere hours away. We feel like we failed you, momma."

I lifted her chin so she was looking me in the eyes. "My Itty Bitty Baby Girl, I am also missing the Little White Dog of My Heart a little more pointedly than always. We spent more than twice your lifetime together, she and I, so of course Siku could almost read my mind. But even were she here, we both would have health issues to consider. I am a blessed woman who wants for nothing and is wrapped in the love of so many. What more does one need?" 

"But momma," Zso cried. "We WANT to do something special. We cannot just ignore your day."

"If I can make a few suggestions to maybe steer you and the rest of the Army in a new and different direction, I would start by asking for a real New Mexican homestyle birthday dinner. Things that we all love but that dad and his helpers are not stuck in the kitchen slaving away to make. How about coconut cake from Flying Star with pistachio ice cream, it was one of Whtie Dog' favorites. 

"What I would enjoy VERY much is time across the day with each of you individually to just talk and share memories and stories and dreams. It is not just the WDA who is redefining itself these days, but the entire world. It excites me and makes me want to hear what each of you thinks."

"That does not sound too exciting, momma," Zso shook her head. "I am preferring depth and genuineness over a wild time these days," I told her. "Plus I trust you, your siblings, and dad have a FEW tricks hidden away."