Remembering Laura's birthday...

Tomorrow (Aug. 4) would be Laura's 38th birthday. This time last year, she was suffering but hopeful the bone marrow transplant would make a difference, so it was a bittersweet celebration. For many years, I phoned Laura on her birthday, and sent a card, and sometimes a gift. It wasn't anything big, usually, just something I thought she would like. Last year, I sent her a Hugs-Eaze pillow, a soft, squishy heart with some sappy friendship message. I told her to hug it whenever she was scared, lonely or hurting, and Wayne told me she would do that, and it brought her some comfort. I wish this year I could send her more than my thoughts and prayers, and could pick up the phone for a long chat. You're still missed, chick, every day, but especially this time of year. There's been many times I needed to hear your laughter, your humor and even your bitching about life in general. I hope in some way you can still feel the love I have for you. Happy birthday, Laura. There will never be another like you.