Many thanks to those who left birthday wishes here on the blog, who sent ecards and paper cards, and to those in my face-to-face life who did such nice things for me on my birthday. In short:

• I was surprised at a local coffee house by the students from the U’s gay-straight alliance. “Those balloons are beautiful! So tasteful.” “Well, we are gay.”
• I received several thoughtful gifts from friends and loved ones.
• I had a lovely evening with a few friends involving whiskey and Thai food.
• I enjoyed a long, good night’s sleep.
• February 1 was a snow day at school.