OK …….. I am completely stunned .. tonight my parents, brother and sister-in-law threw a surprise birthday party for my big 40!!

Not only were my parents, brother and sister-in-law there, but both of my bosses with their spouses, my co-worker Susan and her husband, the Carters [whose twin girls have gained weight this week .. YAY], my former real estate agent and her daughter and son-in-law, my friend JENNY D, my other new friend Jennifer, and last but never least, THE PINK PRINCESS and her boyfriend SUPRAMAN!!

Yall, food was brought in from Ippolitos Italian Restaurant, AND AND AND a DJ!!!!!!!!  Yes, a DJ who played "Upside Down," "Vogue," and "Baby One More Time!!"  My brother put together this incredible "this is Paul's life" dvd, which ended with telling me my big "40" present …….. YALL, in two weeks I leave for a cruise to Puerto Rico!! 

I would have never thought of a cruise!  My brother has been planning this cruise with my Mom and bosses for over 10 months!  The reality of this has not set in.

In addition to the cruise, I got some GREAT gift, all with the "40" theme.  From the PRINCESS, I received 40 boxes of different Chinese treats [thank you PP, please know that I will eat each one].  From the Carters, I received an I-tunes gift certificate which you know I will use immediately.  I got Miss Ross' special edition cd of SURRENDER.  I received 40 cartons of Chocolate milk [ok, I do not drink alcohol, but I have an addition to chocolate milk]!

I felt so loved and blessed tonight.  I hope that everyone truly knew how much I appreciated their attending and celebrating my big day.

Oh, and the reason for Miss Ross's video of "I'm Coming Out?"  Because that is truly how I feel at this stage in my life!

Meanwhile, back at the Hall Of Justice …….. 

OK …….. I finally got to see MILK last night, with my friend JENNYD.  After all the hype from the gay press, as well as the Oscar "buzz," the movie did not disappoint.  Although the movie provided an emotional story of one man trying to find his vision and voice, I was moved by the historical significance.

I have never been arrested in a bar, nor felt the open hatred of a protective institution such as the police, so I was surprised San Francisco was still so homophobic, even in the early 70's.  I also did not realize how Anita Bryant had become such a threat.  I knew about Dade County, but not her success on Oregon, Kansas, etc.  This is definetly a film that 20 yogs [year old gays], need to watch again and again.

OK …….. Miss Ross' version of CORNER OF THE SKY, from PIPPIN, is truly one of my favorite "non-top 40" Diana hits.  I love the message of this song, and think her rendition is incredible.  Unfortunately, You Tube will not allow me to post her live version, so we will have to enjoy William Katt.

I wanted to post this song because it "stated" what I was feeling today.  Ever have those days when "reality" hits you in the face, but in a way that is good and necessary?

A co-worker / friend and his wife just became proud parents of twin baby girls.  However, due to concerns about the health of the mother, the girls were delivered by "C" section Thursday at only 31 weeks.  One was born 3.9 pounds, the other 2 pounds.  On the positive side, all organs were developed and just need to grow.  Also, both girls came out breathing on their own [however, both are now on ventilators for assistance].  So if you do pray, would you mind adding an extra prayer for these little ones?

I also learned this week that a very close friend was diagnosed with diabetes.  Her doctor has prescribed medication, along with changes in diet, etc.  As typical with my friend, she is putting on a brave face, but is still concerned.

Now where did reality come in and play?  I was reading an e-mail from a broker who was upset that her insured's $800.00 windshield claim had not been paid.  The insured only reported the claim yesterday.  And the insured is actually the company owner whose 2008 Mercedes was damaged.  As I read this e-mail, I was so tempted to reply back with "kiss my ass."  One friend is worried about his newborn daughters, the other facing changes in life habits, and all you can think about is an $800 windshield that you could pay and probably not miss the money!

But I also had to remind myself of the times that I get all upset over the stupidest problems.  My I-tunes account is not responding, the wait in line is taking longer than I think it should, etc.

Lessons well learned and noted.

Meanwhile, back at the Hall of Justice ……..