Wow!  Thank you, thank you, thank you!
How awesome is this thread?  I sincerely appreciate the kind, lovely, considerate, and wonderful birthday wishes!
Thank you all...or rather "Thank y'all." 
 
I just have to share this...Mr. Silver can be pretty amazing.  He got me a historical badge (crown-pearl A and O with a plain II) and a rose recognition pin from emporium.  He gave them to me in a rose paper-wrapped box.  

  I was so amazed!  It definitely made for a much better birthday after a long day at school!
Happiness! 

Silver