Happy Birthday Hummingbird!

Hummingbird turns 29 today. Tonight, we gather to celebrate her wonderfulness. I can't wait!

When I first met Hummingbird (aka Megan), many moons ago, I was not an immediate fan of hers. I am ashamed to admit it but it is true. She was so god damned chipper and positive, I thought I might have to cause her bodily harm. We worked at the Admissions Office at UC Santa Cruz. Our desks were positioned directly across from one another, forcing us to stare at each other for 8 hours a day. On one particular day, I remember her asking me, "Are you happy?" and I said "No." I was so depressed and negative and lost. The way she embraced life shamed me. I was living a half-life without any enthusiasm.

As time passed, I began to see her differently and appreciate her unique perspective, her generous spirit, and her unabashed love of life. She got under my skin and I have made her a part of me. I see the world differently because of Hummingbird and I am so grateful for that. All these years later, she is one of my very best friends. If you are lucky enough to ever meet her, you will see what I mean. She is beautiful in every sense of the word.

I love you madly Hummingbird!