Thank you all, my dear, dear friends. Yesterday we had one of those days here at our house -- no water for 36 hours, Freya sneaking a pizza off the kitchen counter, and the smell of fresh polyurethane pervading the cold, damp house.... On the other hand, I had the loving affection of Tom and my DS Jacob, calls and cards from family, and greetings from all of you. And tonight we're going out to dinner to try celebrate again. Carla, Luanne, Jon, Anita, Lori, Ingrid, Sue, Carolina, Pamela, and Carol -- each one of your messages brought smiles and memories to my mind. I just realized that with the exception of Ingrid, I know each one of you in the Real World (as opposed to online) -- Ingrid, we'll just have to correct that soon. The only birthday wish I have left (besides more rain) is to hope that I get to see you all again as frequently and as soon as may be. Rosefolly

Happy belated birthday to you! (I've been around but distracted by personal stuff.) The ring sounds amazing! :) I like that cake. (The version called "Sex in a Pan.") And made the chocolate version in a heart shaped casserole dish a year or two ago for a friend as a joke. I used all chocolate pudding, though. And topped it with dark chocolate curls. I am almost certain I found the same recipe renamed as "Preacher's Wife's Cake" in another cookbook. ;) Here is a link that might be useful: Sex in a Pan

Here's wishing you much happiness on this great day, lady. Hope the year ahead lives up to your hopes and more. ole joyful

Anele...with all you have going on I am so pleased you found this thread and sent your wishes. Thank you ! DH is a special guy. If it weren't for him I know I wouldn't be meditating and that has led to so much more as far as my piece of mind....which he then benefits from. A win/win situation for sure. I am so glad to hear from you and look forward to news of the new little girl when she arrives. c