Saturday, July 27, 2024

Saturday, July 27, 2024

Tonight's picture was taken in July of 2009. Just looking at this photo makes me smile. A friend gave Mattie this wooden Sponge Bob character. Mattie in turn posed and gave me his impression of Sponge Bob. Prior to Mattie getting cancer, I wasn't a Sponge Bob fan and didn't allow Mattie to watch it. That all fell by the way side as soon as he was introduced to this character in the hospital's clinic. Naturally the more I did not like something, the more Mattie did! At that point, whatever brought Mattie happiness and engaged him, I went with it!

Quote of the day: Love that remains longest in your heart is the one that is not returned. ~ Unknown

Today was the first day in three years that I left my parents alone for several hours. I had a core group of friends who wanted to get together for my birthday. I have a hard time socializing now because my world is absolutely devastated. Therefore  I prefer to self isolate, for my own personal safety, and also because I can't handle normal conversation. Thankfully my friends today seemed to understand this and I was grateful to hear about  relationship conversations, summer trips, vacations, or frankly anything life affirming. 

My friends tried today to listen and also not to be prescriptive. I am grateful for their kindness, support, and generosity. 

I received so many wonderful gifts today. Don't you just love these Mattie Miracle themed flowers?  

My friends and I had lunch outside today. I rarely get to spend time outside, as my parents prefer being inside all the time. So when given the chance, if the weather is decent, I love being outside. We were in a screened in porch, so do NOT ask me how this butterfly came in! If this wasn't a Mattie sign, I don't know what is! Notice the bits of orange on its wings! All I know is this was Mattie's sign to me that he is watching everything that is happening to me and he is not happy with what he sees. But this butterfly is a reminder that Mattie is with me always. 

I happen to love Chinese food, but my mom doesn't. So literally I haven't had Chinese food in years, which is why I requested it today!

This beautiful cake was an ice cream cake. Which is actually my favorite! When I was a kid, every birthday I celebrated had a Carvel cake. So this to me was a reminder of better days. 

My friends sent me home with food, flowers, cards, and all sorts of wonderful gifts. I maybe in a low place, but I am aware of the amazing friendship circle I have and though I can't be a good friend now, they have all reminded me of the many ways I have helped them over the years, and that was very meaningful to me.