Back Dated

When I was in the retail business, I always knew when the holidays were coming up. 

Perpetual Calendar, circa 16th Century

These days, birthdays, anniversaries, and other special events creep up on me. Last weekend, for example, was Easter, and while I started to see chocolate bunnies at the grocery store weeks before, the actual day didn't quite register until I realized I couldn't shop at Heinen's on Sunday because it was closed for the holiday.

I did manage to get to Giant Eagle early that day for my weekly grocery excursion. I even picked up a donut for Mr. Ginley and me.

"I wonder if having a donut for lunch on Easter is kosher," I mused aloud.

Mr.'s response was quick and succinct.

"Jesus would have wanted us to eat a donut for lunch on Easter. He was Jewish, he wouldn't eat ham."

So that resolved that moral dilemma, and we got through the day without any more theological discussions.

However, the topic of Mr.'s birthday came up. His natal day was last Tuesday, and while I hadn't completely forgotten, it wasn't top of mind, largely because I had to arrange for his MRA on Wednesday, and that had taken top billing for the week.

"What are we having for my birthday dinner?" he inquired. 

I went through my list of meals for the week and selected the Cheesy Sloppy Joe Casserole. Just about anything with hamburger in it is a safe bet.

"Do I like that?" he asked, as he always does when I throw out the name of a dish. 

"Yes," I assured him. He looked dubious but accepted my answer.

"Okay. As long as I get butterscotch brownies." Which he did, although I baked them the day after, because I was off work for the MRA.

He was kind enough to wait for his treat.

As for the MRA, we won't know the results until next month when we have a virtual visit with his neurologist. However, we do find the phrase "no concentric vessel wall enhancement suggestive of vasculitis" to be reassuring. (Thank you, Google.)

I suppose my "one day at a time" mantra is what's giving me tunnel vision, vis-à-vis what's happening outside of these four walls. 

But right now, that's about the best I can do. So if I'm late with the birthday wishes, I apologize in advance. 

Do they make boxed belated birthday cards? Asking for a friend.