Two nights ago, my dear best friend Kate threw a surprise going away party for me. Somehow, despite the fact that Kate and I talk *multiple* times a day, either in person, by phone, by IM or email, I remained completely oblivious until the moment of the surprise. So much for my blossoming psychic abilities. ;) She had been planning it for weeks.

It was a wonderful evening, complete with slideshow, band, and even my parents in attendance (you know you have grown up, I guess, when that is actually a good thing). I was completely floored and am still extremely touched!

What was most remarkable to me, in hindsight, was how many times I might have clued in, but didn't. It really highlighted to me just how much our perception is limited by our existing expectations. A number of things could have tipped me off, but because I had so much else on my mind, and because I was completely non-suspicious, they all rolled right through my awareness without so much as a ripple.

It made me wonder how much else is like that. How often do I completely miss what's actually happening, because I have already believed another false story?? Quite the thought...!

Thank you Kate... I will never forget it. xxoo