CCLXI: Happiest Birthday

Last night I had the absolute pleasure of being accompanied by some of my dearest friends to celebrate my birthday at my favourite new restaurant. Yes, that's a lot of superlatives packed into one sentence (as well as "my"s) but it's all I can use to express MYself. Phew.

We shared a table for 12 at Corner Suite Bistro de Luxe and I must claim with all honesty that I was a bit anxious about how the night would turn out. I was worried I wouldn't get to talk to everyone, that my friends wouldn't love the food, that some friends who didn't know each other would not talk to each other, etc. But everything turned out perfectly, or at least that's what I thought! Everyone loved the food, chatted with one another, I got to make the rounds a few times (my only regret was not having enough Smeek/Lover time--but then again, I have some awesome photos with those two!); the service was excellent since our waitress was very attentive, accommodating, kind, and lovely--she helped me choose from their bible of cocktails and also customized the drink for me since I mentioned I'd like it sweeter. The atmosphere was great even with the loud music that made us yell to each other. (My throat was sore within a few minutes.)

The highlight for me, other than having my friends all together in one room and the extra oreo and cookie blizzard cake, was when I received my first formal toast ever. Everyone was so sweet and supportive in wishing me the best year ahead, and to have had that moment in one lifetime, a moment that I will cherish forever, is a testament to the sincerity and beauty of good friendships. To have had that benevolence emanating from the smiles of eleven faces was like having a glorious ray of sunlight on a perfect summer day beaming down on me, as corny as it sounds. So what lasted a minute or so felt like time stood still and sped up at the same time, both fleeting and consuming. And it also made me wish I had my own reality show so that I would have had it on tape. Maybe next year.

The general consensus around the table was that they wished me LOVE. And I agree with you, friends; except you have given it to me already!

Thank you to everyone who made my 24th so spectacular!

To be continued...