
I love this man.
He’s truly the best man I know. He continually strives to be a better person – that’s who he is. He had a very, very hard childhood; his parents split up, his mother was very troubled, they moved constantly, lived on food stamps. It’s amazing to me that both Don and his brother turned out to be such good people.
He is wildly funny, incredibly talented, both as an actor and as a singer-songwriter. He is kind, compassionate, loving, generous, principled. His example inspires me to be ‘better.’ I learn from him every day.
He didn’t have a blueprint for a good marriage and his first two marriages failed. I was fearful of any kind of commitment. That this marriage works is a testament to our mutual vow to stop repeating destructive patterns, to do it right.
He is as honest as the day is long.
As part of his recovery program of well over 45 years, he helps others. He has been a mentor and guide to many people over the years. I’ve witnessed it on a daily basis.
He is the light of my life and I am eternally grateful that I met him, that I took the leap that terrified me but did it anyway, because the life I live now with him at my side was worth it. It means everything to me.
Happy Birthday, sweetheart. I love you forever.
______________________
Joe has had the breathing tubes removed and can use his voice a bit. He’s very, very tired. He’s under very careful supervision, is getting a lot of tests, and has already had a session of occupational therapy. Recovery will be slow, but so far, so good. We are all so thankful.
Stay safe.
Happy Wednesday.


Wishing a very happy birthday to Mr. Don. He’s one of my favorite ‘significant others’ I get to hear/read about on Instagram. I love how he supports you, and it’s clear that you guys love each other. Also very glad you got an update on Joe. Sending prayers and every good vibe heavenwards for his continued recovery.
xoxo
Happy Birthday to Don! Wishing him a wonderful year filled with happy times, lots of laughter, peace and joy.
So glad to hear that your friend, Joe, is recovering slowly but surely.
xoxo
What a wonderful example Don sets for all of us! Happiest of birthdays!! D
xoxo
happy birthday, don! may this day (and every day) be filled with your favorite things and spent exactly as you want. may this day be the start of a terrific year ahead full of good health and much happiness for you and claudia.
while i sure love jimmy, right now i’m hearing in my head “trip around the sun” (especially as his duet with martina mcbride) because it’s your birthday and because my sister and i were fortunate enough to see/hear you in “escape to margaritaville” in chicago (you did great!). thanks to you and claudia for sharing your many talents with the world.
and claudia, what a wonderful tribute to and photo of your husband! your love and gratitude are shining in every word. i am very happy for you and don to have found each other … one of God’s many blessings to the two of you! :)
glad you received an update about joe and that he’s making progress. that is good to hear and must bring you some relief! :) my prayers will continue.
may God bless you both and those you love.
kathy
xoxo
Happy Birthday to Don! That’s a great photo and would make very fitting album cover! You’re blessed to have found each other.
Glad that you’ve had an update on your friend.
Happy Wednesday
xoxo
Happy Birthday to Don!
I’m so glad you had some positive news about your friend, Joe. Continued prayers for a complete recovery.
xoxo
Happy, Happy Birthday, Don. Wishing you all the best on your special day; enjoy your day. Good news about Joe, wishing him a speedy and full recovery. Yes, you two are wonderful together and glad to be your blog friend.
xoxo
A love like you have for each other is such a blessing. May you enjoy a long and happy, healthy life together. Happy birthday, Don!
xoxo
Happy Birthday Don!!
xoxo
Happy birthday to the love of your life. The Fates truly smiled on you on the day you met but the hard work you both do keeps you together.
Very good news about Joe.
xoxo
Happy Birthday, Don!
Marion Shaw
xoxo
Happy Birthday Don! Glad to hear Joe is progressing, too! Enjoy the day! ;)
xoxo
Happy Birthday Don! I’m happy Joe is improving.
Thank you, Carol.
Stay safe.
This is a good news post all around. Many happy birthday wishes to Don. This was just a wonderful tribute. We’ve come to know Don through you and now we know him even more!
And good news on Joe too. One day at a time, but at least he is able to speak.
Thank you, Jeanie.
Stay safe.
What a beautiful tribute, to the person you love, your person in this world to go through life with.
I wish Don the very best and to you both a wonderful year.
I still see Don as my Sheriff Walt Longmire, with his rugged good looks.
Take Care,
Kaye
Thank you, Kaye.
Stay safe.
Sweet tribute to your amazing husband. So happy your found each other. Happy Birthday Don!
Thank you, Linda.
Stay safe.
Happy Birthday to Don! So Lucky to have a Summer birthday. Take it from someone born in cold grey January. Missed the birthday as Daphne (Toyota) had to celebrate by getting a new battery (when did they get so expensive?, LOL), & front brakes. Got a lot of Summer sock knitting done while waiting , waiting, waiting. Hope Don enjoyed his day.
I was born in November, so I get it.
Thanks, Lucinda.
Stay safe.