Keep Calm and Birthday On!

“What 30 Looks Like” is the title of the blog post my friend Suzi’s daughter, Rebecca, wrote recapping her recent birthday party.

It’s difficult for me to think this is the same leggy little girl I once gave my Miss Alhambra tiara to on her twelfth birthday. It was very apparent at that early age from her collection of tiaras that Rebecca was destined to have exceptional style and taste which has grown to a sophisticated appreciation and talent for interior design. Her blog Rebecca June, is a fun trip into what 30 looks like.

Being blessed with sons, I was fortunate ito have Suzi share the experience on the fringe of having a daughter through Rebecca—her prom, her cheerleading days at Mission Viejo High, her ‘panties’ bridal shower where I brought baking supplies like the practical auntie I am, her unbelievable purple, black and white wedding where I have never seen so many beautiful deep purple hydrangeas or a bride so happy that you’d hear her laughter floating in the air during the evening. You just knew if you looked over your shoulder you’d see the essence of radiance.

Suzi hosted a wonderful birthday party full of effervescence where pink balloons dripped from sparkling chandeliers and black balloons accented. My gift was making the birthday cake—a big cupcake with royal icing stars, gum paste ribbons and balls of pink pearls dragees. The preparation of a special cake or cookies is what I love the most about baking. During the process of sifting, measuring, and rolling, I’m brought into the mix of the family. Rebecca, Suzi and the boys were in my thoughts from scratching a design on a piece of paper over until piping the last swirl. I truly considered this a gift I was given. The mindfulness ... and, come to think of it—the martini lunch. Please don’t make me choose.

I arrived at the party cameraless so I asked for others to take a few snaps. Rebecca is into Instagrams. I love this look. The app won’t work on my intellectually-challenged un-smart phone but it will work on my iPad. Did you know you can buy apps as gifts and they will be emailed to the recipients? Apple. What will they think of next that I feel I can’t live without but absolutely can but choose not to?

And speaking of Rebecca’s collections, there's that other little one from her bridal shower days that I’m sure her husband, Jim, is delighted with. Of course, I was requested to make a batch of pink and black Tushie Cookies. It’s fashion week in Paris and I’m considering these my spring collection. This time I did pony up a pair of panties to accompany the line. It matched the cookies, but of course! My recent philosophy is, “Those who can wear them— do. And those who can’t—bake and decorate." I guess you know which side of the cookie I frost. You could say I have a certain eye for posterior design. It’s a gift, I know.  :)

From what I can tell from Miss Rebecca June’s instagrams, 30 is looking pretty darn good.

Happy birthday, sweet girl.

Sources for Birthday Goodies:

Wilton Jumbo Cake Pan – Bed, Bath & Beyond

Instagram App

Birthday Candles – Dana Party Supply

'Keep Calm and Birthday On'/ Pink Leopard Paper Plates - Target

Rebecca’s dress and belt – See Rebecca June blog

Liquid Inspiration - Espresso Martinis made by Kyle at Hanna's