A Wonderful, if Unconventional, Birthday

What an illustrious month this is! October has witnessed the births of some incredible people over the years (Patty Dunn, Bronson Goebel, Nathan Maust, Rolf Graning, Jeremy Goebel, Arsalan Suleman, Rhett Leger) and some not-as-incredible people (Charlton Heston, Jeff Golblum, P.G. Wodehouse, me) who are happy just to be part of such a month. This certainly was not the kind of birthday celebration I've had in the past, given that the majority of the ones I love and care about most were all far, far way. Nonetheless, I must say that, in absentia, my family and friends went to some amazing lengths to celebrate me.... There were the 18 gorgeous (and thriving!) roses sent by Lisa:), the spiffy new cycling jersey/jacket that she'd hidden in the apartment, the delicious chocolate cheesecake that my parents sent via mail, plus numerous cards, phone calls, emails, and enthusiastic renditions of "Happy (Birth)Day" from my nearest and dearest, as well as from some I hadn't heard from in a while. For a birthday spent mostly alone with stacks of notes and books, it was one for the history books. In fact, I've never felt more loved:). That said, I'm still counting on repeat celebrations as I'm able to see you all again! I've included some pics of the "festivities" - Neal with Lisa's:):) lovely roses, Neal in the spiffy new jersey/jacket, and Neal indulging in some solo birthday cake. Thanks again to all of you who helped make this birthday a special one.