My idea of heaven is chocolate, but last night was Michael’s night – and he enjoyed every spoonful of it. The sundae on his plate, which had “Happy Birthday” written on it, was his idea of heaven: fresh strawberries, strawberry sauce, vanilla ice cream and whipped cream. Oh, and there was a small pitcher of chocolate sauce on the table and after I took the photo he decided to pour some on his already decadent dessert.

We were out feting Michael’s milestone at BLT Steak at the Ritz Carlton in White Plains with my mother, sister and Mom’s trusty companion, and it was quite a meal with lots of laughs and good food. It was also one of my husband’s “good days,” Crohn’s wise, and he doesn’t have them all that often. He was able to eat without pain and enjoy his own birthday and for that we were both grateful.

As I get ready to promote You’d Better Not Die or I’ll Kill You, I’ve been thinking a lot about the hours in hospitals and doctors’ offices and waiting rooms during our 20 years together and how I hope the book will help others caring for a family member with a chronic or critical illness, but last night was all about not being sick. It was about savoring strawberry sundaes and celebrating life.

P.S. Here’s the latest cover of the book. Love how colorful it is.