Contemporary essays, fiction, and opinion offered regularly by author Anne Brandt.






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My Birthday
Posted: 06/08/08
Years ago I decided two things about my birthday. First, I only do things I want to do on that day; if it falls on a work day I usually arrange to take it off. Second, I always go to the beach.

Yesterday was my birthday. So what did I do? I played piano, worked out, read the cards friends and family had sent, went out to dinner with Earl, and spent the latter part of the evening on the phone. Doesn’t sound like much, does it? But I enjoyed every moment, not only for what I did but also for what I didn’t.

I didn’t answer a single business email. I didn’t pay any bills. I didn’t check my investments (a frequent Saturday ritual). I didn’t weed. I didn’t take on any extra obligations. I just lived in the moment.

And, of course, I went to the beach. Earl and I went together to Silver Beach in downtown St. Joe and walked to the end of the north pier where the St. Joseph lighthouse sits. Along the way we met people fishing on the piers, lounging on the sand, and playing in the water. It was delightful.

In fact, it was so much fun I’ve decided to do all the same things again today. So I won’t be doing that weeding, or balancing my checkbook, or answering emails until reality checks in tomorrow morning.

P.S. I also want to thank Hillary Clinton for her speech in support of Barack Obama yesterday.


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