Birthdays – by Charmaine Candappa July As our birthdays approach us, I felt motivated to do something meaningful. Something personal, a shared experience with four friends we often meet. I would want to spend time at Yosemite, to look up and see the redwood trees towering over me. I need to fill my memory bank with things that give me joy. I love to string necklaces, with turquoise and jade beads, publish my poetry, and spend cherished time with friends who provide me laughter and joy. I am not alone when I sometimes speak of these thoughts aloud, even with gifted ladies in my church group on Tuesday mornings, in our creativity room. People derive more happiness from such experiences. Spending quality time with friends and family, that foster joy and enduring memories. My longing “to do” list includes a visit to New York to see the Statue of Liberty, ...