Happy 19th birthday to the most loved of goddaughters!

Hey Nineteen
That’s ‘Retha Franklin
She don’t remember the Queen of Soul
It’s hard times befallen
The sole survivors
She thinks I’m crazy
But I’m just growing old

– Steely Dan

So, it’s off to Maggiano’s for yummy dinner (must remember to starve today since I will be eating pasta on top of the hellishness that was my menu this weekend) and over to Mary’s for presents. OOOH! Should I bring the birthday headdress? Perhaps we can all wear a lovely bit of birthday headgear! hehe (She’s gonna be too old and sophisticated for this soon, I know it. ‘Til then, though, I shall continue to be 12 forever with her!)

A Tribute to Lauren:

L is for Lustig - your engaging and entertaining blog
A is for Alton Brown – one of your favorite cooking dudes (and dudettes)
U is for your uncanny knack for getting lost no matter where you go (good thing Charlottesville is small. You can only get so lost there!)
R is for remaining 12 with me 4-evah!
E is for your energetic and loving spirit
N is for never being without your camera

I hope all the icky trials and tribulations of the past year fade into oblivion and leave only lessons that serve you in the future. You’ve been a wonderful fake child to me, my sweetie, and I know our goofy and wonderful relationship will continue to grow in the coming years.

Happy Happy Birthday and yes, I know. You DO have a flag!