"23, what a meaningless birthday," I chuckle to myself as I drive back from dinner. A few close friends had been kind enough to surprise me and kidnap me for dinner and drinks. Being that the big 2-3 fell on Mother's Day this year, it was especially surprising; I figured everyone would have plans. nn"Good thing it's early," I whisper under my breath; they kept feeding me drink after drink. Not that I minded, of course -- it's nice to be waited on once a year! Unfortunately I can't help but feel a little empty, this being the first single birthday in years. The rest of this night is sure to be just slightly less eventful than years past, I think, as I push the key into the lock.nnIt almost turned out to be a night as unexpected as dinner was. I've met an amazing woman online, and we have been chatting, phoning, and emailing back and forth for many months. When she found out my birthday was a week away and on a Sunday, she joked about coming to visit, but after the joking we found that the idea had us both very excited. So plans were made, and we were both very excited. She wasn't very sure when she was going to be arriving, so I left a key in the plant just in case I was not home.nnUnfortunately when Rachel realized it was Mother's Day, she had to cancel. I wasn't mad; how could I be? I was mad that I didn't get to see my mom today! But there was disappointment for us both; we had become close, and actually spending time together -- regardless of what happened -- would have been wonderful. We both hoped we could reschedule soon.nnAs I walk though the empty house, the dog jumps up to greet me. "Can't beat that enthusiasm," I say as I pick her up. I put down the dog, throw my jacket over a chair, and turn on the TV.