As some of you know, my father’s condition has worsened a great deal in the last few days. So I’ve been at Mt. Sinai Hospital almost constantly all week.

That said, my birthday had unexpected bright spots. My father rallied for about an
hour when an old friend, an advertising legend like my dad, came by and they talked about horse racing at Saratoga, Belmont and elsewhere, advertising back in the day (the 1960’s), Times
Square, Coney Island and books.

My father even came up with a great Save Coney Island slogan. All
Money, No Coney. Actually I don’t know how he’s want to punctuate it. He’s been sleeping most of the day. If he rallies again, I’ll ask him.

It was a gift to hear him converse with this old friend/colleague from advertising days. They also share a great love of horse racing. This man’s race horse, Thou Swell, is running in a Saratoga race this Sunday.

We’ll be rooting for that horse. We’ll be rooting for Thou Swell with all our hearts. If my father were awake I’d ask if we should put some money on it.

Another bright spot. Getting into the subway on 96th Street, my wonderful high school friend Opera Diva jumped off the crosstown bus screaming, "Happy Birthday!!!" We hugged like the oldest and dearest of friends that we are. I could not believe my great fortune in seeing her at such a perfect  moment.

I tried to get her to come to Brooklyn where our mutual friend, Best and Oldest, was waiting with my sister, Hepcat, OSFO, Divorce Diva and Warm and Funny with champagne and a huge, delicious selection of sushi.

Unfortunately, Opera Diva’s son was having a sleepover guest and she had to get home. Well, she missed a generous amount of wine, sushi, an unusually delicious chocolate cake made by Best and Oldest’s daughter and much great friendship and conversation.

She probably didn’t miss Obama’s speech, which was a wonderful end to a difficult day that was brightened by the brightest of bright spots.