Celebrating my birthday on the First of July is a fabulous prelude to starting the summer. It is a few days before the festivities of Independence Day takes precedence with family, food, fun and fireworks. I find the older I get, the idea of observing my birthday through loud garish rituals and the extolling of laudatory songs or speeches has completely worn off.
You know you have reached a certain age when you are reminded of an upcoming birthday by the delivery of coupons or cards from specialty stores arriving via mail or email stating, “celebrate your birthday on us”!!
Please do not misunderstand my intent; I enjoy a celebration, but one that has the pace of quiet refinement and understated elegance. Instead of a gooey, deliciously thick chiffon cake, I prefer a pear frangipane tart from the bakery in Whole Foods, served with a chilled glass of Brut Cava (Spanish wine). Next, a few choice tunes playing throughout the house (preferably soft Brazilian Jazz) and cut flowers from the garden displayed in clear glass vases on the countertops and tables.
{Sunflowers and a Pear Frangipani tart}
I have come to enjoy this tranquil annual observance within the privacy of my home, away from restaurants with wait-staff who may burst into outrageous song, bearing a slice of overly sweet cake and that solemn candle flittering on two inches of icing.
It takes a great deal of preparation to ensure my celebration is private, away from the annoying disturbances of a restaurant, and as much as I love my friends, this has truly become a family affair!
So, to my fabulous sister and all of my friends who are also “Cancer the Crabs”, dedicate time for yourself and enjoy the day your way!!
Entertain stylishly, especially for yourself!!!
K
Stylish Heath 