Happy Birthday To Me

Wednesday, April 14

For years, I’d imagined travelling abroad on my 21st birthday. I had every reason to believe that I would… until last year. The plan was to go to New Orleans because the music scene there appeals to me. I’m not much of a Jazz connoisseur, but I can appreciate good musicianship regardless. When we entered the pandemic last year, I wasn’t too worried… until it hadn’t resolved by winter. By Christmas, I was pretty much resigned to the fact that travelling was off the table and started giving a bit of thought to something I could do to celebrate at home. When I got the call from the Seeing Eye and found out that I’d be required to be in the US 14 days before my class date, I laughed a bit at the irony. I wouldn’t be in either Vegas or New Orleans, but I wouldn’t be at home, either, and I thought that was cool.

This evening, I was able to leave quarantine briefly to visit one of my favourite places. I’ve been to the Cheese Cake Factory on a total of 3 occasions, (once in Nashville, once in Connecticut, and now in Philadelphia), and it was stellar all three times. The drinks were good too. My first one was a peach Bellini with a strawberry on top. One of my favs.

I ordered Cajun chicken and shrimp Penne, and I’ve gotta say, it was pretty good. I’m still not quite wrapping my head around these American portions, but at least I’ll have dinner for tomorrow… and maybe even the day after. Confession: may have stolen some of my friend’s fries too… They were so good. I couldn’t help it.

I’d barely made a dent in my dinner, but I couldn’t leave that place without trying a slice of their legendary cheese cake. This one was called Godiva, and it was as beautiful as I imagine Godiva herself was. Layers of dark chocolate cheese cake, whipped cream, and a generous slab of chocolate somewhere in there. Got the tipical birthday song from the staff, and a little candle on the top.

All in all, it was a great birthday. Although I’m in quarantine, I didn’t have to spend it completely alone and that’s all I can ask for. We had a birthday celebration at home before I left, so it wouldn’t have been the worst thing, but you’re only 21 once. I’m glad it was memorable.

I’m still getting used to the time change,so I’ll probably head off to bed soon. I’ll have lots of time to write over the next few weeks and I have lots to share regarding travel and the trip up here, but that’ll have to wait for another day. Until next time…