Tomorrow is Cindy’s 30th birthday. It’s been almost 8 weeks since the accident. Cindy has come a long way.

Yesterday’s doctor visit went very well. Her cast was replaced with another (4th? 5th?) cast and the doctor liked what she saw. Cindy won’t be able to put any pressure on her foot for another 6 weeks, but every day is one day closer to walking.

Tragedy has a way of bringing out the best in people — tenderness, thoughtfulness — all of those inborn tendencies that are so easily suppressed by almost anything, from daily inconveniences to the tautness of our schedules. It can be really hard to slow down, soften up, and appreciate the many good fortunes in our lives. Being here with Cindy the past few weeks has been, among many other things, a great reminder. While living next door to Steve and Cindy I became enchanted by their love affair. As I’ve said before, to me it was the model of a what a relationship at its very best could be. And now, being here in this apartment with Cindy, I’m reminded of why Steve loved her so much: because she’s Cindy. Sweet, lovable Cindy. That’s why she has so much support right now, and that’s why she’ll be OK.

Schan’s friend Henry sent the first season of a show with a note that read: “Here’s to the second season of your life.” Happy birthday Cindy. I loved you in the first season, and have a lot of faith in season two.