8/02/2009

ANOTHER ONE BITES THE DUST


As I am rehydrating and enjoying the view of overflowing garbage cans, I've been reflecting on the most perfect birthday party one could ever hope for. My 30th year has begun with a force of wonderful friends, amazing family and a record setting heat-wave summer. If this party is a sign of things to come in my 30th year, lucky me!

Jello shots, fruit spodi and cases of beer kicked off my 30th party held here, at my home. My husband and sister have spent not less than 6 weeks planning this shin-dig on the sly. It was an awkward experience for me to not have a hand in the party-planning and detail orientation of the fiesta, but I'm not complaining. For the first time, I was completely stress-free and at-ease at my own backyard barbecue. Although I was pushing jello shots like a dealer, I enjoyed the freedom to float and mingle at my own pace without needing to worry about food coming and going. I am grateful to my husband and sister, specifically, for allowing me this freedom.

The shining moment of the party, aside from the gathering of so many of my friends, some dating back to the high school years of 1996, was the band. The live band. I had live music at my party. I felt like Paris Hilton. Seriously.

Most anyone who knows me, knows that I really enjoy music and have several talented musical friends. The one request I had for a 30th party was "live music" and it was completely, satisfyingly fulfilled. Since Eddie Vedder wasn't available, a band consisting of close friends (who also play for non-birthday related purposes) put together a play list of cover songs that they felt best fit me. Ranging from Jimmy Buffet and Michael Jackson to The Cars, Katy Perry and Bob Marley, they hit the nail on the head. Complete with personal birthday banter. AS IF that wasn't enough, there was a surprise rendition of Jason Mraz's "I'm Yours" with guitar by my husband! He's been learning the guitar for the past many months and you all know how I feel about Jason. What a super surprise! The second set ended with a personal favorite, an alt-rock version of Vanilla Ice's "Ice, Ice Baby". This song has been performed by my friends before as part of live gigs they've done in the past, but I beg to hear it anytime they take the stage. You would love it.

As the night wound down and the indoor temps began to creep back into the 80's, the crowd parted. That is, except the few of us keepin' it rolling into the wee hours with our own "after party" noshing on leftover party food and what remained of the Mike's Hard Lemonade. New food entrees were established, such as the Bean Burger (which is apparently "so good"). A rousing game of half drunk poker turned into an intense go at Password.

Finally in bed by 2:30am with a sugar high that wouldn't quit, I couldn't stop thinking about what a great party I got. I'm surrounded by great people and am satisfied and secure in my marriage and family. Thirty isn't so bad.

1 comment:

  1. Happy Birthday Brie! I recognize Paul's arm in the picture.... :)

    - T

    ReplyDelete