Happy Birthday to Me!

Birthdays at GiGi’s are always special. Participants love to sing to each other and (maybe) bring cupcakes or cookies to the Playhouse for a “sweet” celebration. I was quiet about my birthday falling on a day of GiGi’s Kitchen, but the information somehow “leaked” and I was given an unexpected and sweet celebration of my own this past week.

I typically work in my office and (conveniently) “make my appearance” in the GiGi’s Kitchen just as lunch is ready to be served. This day was no exception, as I was enticed out from behind my computer screen by the aroma of chicken enchiladas and dulce de leche cupcakes wafting into my office.

As I walked into the kitchen, I was suspiciously asked to sit down at a table. Then, I was handed a one-of-a-kind original birthday card and surrounded by a group of good friends that serenaded me with a chorus of “Happy Birthday”.

I remember thinking that spending my Valentine’s Day evening at an edition of Fantastic Friends was really nice, and it was. But spending a Birthday with my GiGi’s Kitchen friends was really extra special!

GiGi’s Playhouse takes pride in being a place of acceptance for all. I’m glad that works both ways and that GiGi’s is a place where participants and their families accept an old man like me. I can’t thank you all enough!

Thanks,

John Claes
GiGi’s Playhouse Executive Director