I went to my Aunt Gertie’s 90th surprise birthday party this past Saturday. I do believe that beautiful Lady was surprised, but also very pleased to see so many people she loves and who love her. It was a wonderful way to celebrate her. I talked to several people I did not know but who of course knew Aunt Gertie. I really enjoyed hearing all the different ways we were all connected to one person. I learned a lot about the different and interesting phases of Aunt Gerties’ life, too. We sang the Happy Birthday song, one of my favorite songs because it does celebrate that special person at a significant time in his or her life. And also, on a more historical note, two sisters, Mildred and Patty Hill, both kindergarten teachers right here in Louisville, Ky., wrote the Happy Birthday song back in the early 1890’s. How fun is that for us Louisvillians!

This coming Saturday my dear friend Chickie is attending a baby shower for her niece. Another celebration only this time for a young mother and for her new baby girl who should be arriving in early December. Both gatherings involve saying hello to old friends, meeting new friends, eating great food, and focusing on that one special person or persons for an important occasion.

The best part to me is the idea of celebrating life. Celebrating the life of a ninety year young woman or celebrating the new life of a baby are two great examples. I love we have these traditions. It speaks volumes to me. What if we didn’t? What if birthdays were ho-hum, ignored, forgotten? What if we didn’t have that warm feeling inside of us, that excitement, when we hear of a new life about to join us all here on Earth? I don’t want to even try to imagine because it seems our hearts would be all dry and shriveled up.

We can all celebrate life everyday in some way, big or small. We don’t have to wait for an important occasion. It’s a practice I try to put into action daily. But is sure is fun when the time rolls around to celebrate that special person!

c   Love, Joan