Jean arrives!

I had such a wonderful birthday! My favorite thing about my birthday is the sensation of entitlement I feel the whole day long. That feeling of, “I can give myself permission to do ANYTHING because today’s my birthday!” is one I look forward to all. year. long.

And this birthday was honestly so great. In the evening my friend, Jean, arrived and we picked her up from the airport as a family. We were going to try to all drive to my friend’s husband’s piano concert, but it got too crazy so we just drove to Rodizio’s and ate a lot. Also, I showed her Reid Moon’s bookstore, which is so impressive. (It’s full of incredible rare books and artifacts.)

Mary giving Clarissa rides in the morning. Mary is the most attentive older sibling imaginable. She is endlessly patient with Clarissa and is delighted by Clarissa’s every move, even (especially) the mischievous ones!

I am feeling happy and so thrilled for my most guilt-free day of the year.