Thirty Six

Yesterday, January 14, was my thirty-sixth birthday. Putting aside the utter absurdity of the fact that I’m thirty six, I’ve had a really wonderful weekend. Here are some highlights:

A table arrayed with a variety of bowls and plates.
Dinner was Japanese style grilled chicken, grilled onions, and green beans. Photo credit Erin “EJ” O’Connor.

Tess and EJ came over for dinner. They surprised me with cards, presents, and an incredible gluten free chocolate cake from Noe Valley Bakery. (Their cakes are amazing, by the way; you should totally get one.)

A cylidrical chocolate cake covered in smooth chocolate icing. Small flourishes adorn the bottom. Tess' hand holds a knife, part way through making a cut. Several more cuts mark out three pieces of cake ready to be served.
Seriously look at this cake.

Both my cats, Rowan and Ash, greeted me Sunday morning and hung around for some good snuggles.

I went to Kabuki Springs in Japantown, where I had a massage and a couple hours’ soak in the baths. 🧖🏻‍♀️ I haven’t had a massage in quite a long time and it was great to unwind for a while.

Tess and I spent the night at the Fairmont Hotel, and had dinner at the Laurel Court.

A sweeping view of San Francisco from Nob Hill on a clear day with high wispy clouds. In the center distance, Alcatraz Island rises out of the water. To the right, Coit Tower stands atop Telegraph Hill. To the left is Russian Hill, with myriad tall apartment buildings.
The view from our room at the Fairmont.

So much credit goes to Tess, who booked all the things and made the whole weekend happen. She took such good care of me, and I feel very loved.

A number of friends and family also reached out to wish me happy birthday. I’m deeply grateful for all of your birthday wishes, and for taking the time connect. <3