I admit it. The lead up to my 80th birthday was silly. Yes, silly. On my part. I’m more like a 7 year old when it comes to birthdays, than an aging adult. I started thinking about a big party to celebrate about a year ago. Covid took care of that fantasy months ago. The restaurants here in Santa Barbara cannot serve meals, so that took away the idea of going out for a nice dinner.A zoom party was suggested, but that held little appeal to me. I knew I wanted/needed something special to mark the Big Day, but couldn’t figure out what. My kids to the rescue.
As it turned out, it turned out perfectly. The day began by checking out my facebook page. That got me off to a good start with HB messages from friends and family. As the day progressed, the ringing doorbell brought several really stunning floral bouquets to help me celebrate. Yes, one was from my husband who obviously read my last blog.

David Austin roses
After lunch, my daughter Brett and her husband Bino arrived with a wonderful surprise gift. A video made by many of my choreographer friends to Cat Stevens singing Morning has Broken. It really did move me to tears. Such an amazing tribute and so heartfelt. Nothing more needed to happen after that. But it did.
A take out dinner from Loquita was festive and excellent. On this ridiculously mild mid January evening, we ate it on our back deck, with a few family members. That was followed by a classic white birthday cake and presents. I haven’t lost my love of good birthday cake. I came to bed with indigestion, gratitude and happiness. Thanks to everyone who helped me celebrate.
Tonight 80 does feel like the new 50.
Congrats, Dianne, you (Birthday) Party Animal!!!