All about me...

I usually write my blog entries at the end of the day so I am able to tell you about everything that happened that day, but I was too tired to write about last night when I got home. ... and now I'm too excited to wait 'til tonight to write about it! So I had to get up and begin writing now.

My high school friends, Donna and Cliff, made themselves an amazing 50th birthday bash! We had the BEST BEST BEST time! Everything was done to the nines! Beautiful decor. Awesome food! Flowing alcohol! Karaoke! Dancing! It was just perfect!!!

Hey Donna, ever think of becoming a party planner?

It's in your genes!

Beautiful job!!! THANK YOU!!!

So anyway, here's how it all began. About 3 weeks ago, a beautiful invitation arrived. My Aunt Rena, who is an invitation designer, taught me that the invitation is the first glimpse into the event. She said that the invitation sets the tone for the party. Boy was she ever right! The invitation was amazing, and the party was even better!!!

I met Donna and Cliff in high school. We all went to school in Hollywood together (...back in the...ahem, seventies) and we are all turning 50 this year. Donna and I were great friends in high school. I'd say we were best friends! There were two groups of guys I hung out with in those days. Rick, Danny, Ira, Cliff, Matt etc...and Steven, Curtis, Scot, Fish and Howard. Donna was dating Cliff. (After she dumped Doug and Leo) :) So when I was hanging with Rick's group, (My ex hubby and father of Mr. Gorgeous boy) Donna and I were together even more. She's great. Her mom was a hoot. I loved her too.

As for Cliff, we were also friends. He came from this cool family with 4 boys. The family was in the car business. They owned a VW dealership in the 70's and 80's and then in the 90's they sold Avantis. They also are the family that puts together the South Florida Auto Show every year. They were always into cars. Cliff is the baby. His brother Brian (2nd youngest) taught me how to drive in his 1976 Mustang. (I've been obsessed with ponies ever since.) Brian married a girl from HS also. Ronda. They had three kids and were married a long time. ...but sadly divorced. Last night Ronda was there with Brian and the kids. They're dating again. How cool is that? (I'm a hopeless romantic!)

Anyway, I'm rambling. Back to the story of the how's and why's of this party. Late December 2009, Donna's mammography came back bad. She was diagnosed with breast cancer and it was recommended that she have her breast removed. She discussed all the options with her doctors and in February she had a double mastectomy. You know quite often you hear people say "It's all how you look at it."? Or, "It's all about the attitude!"? Well Donna Joy Szyman Ray is living proof that those sayings are indeed so true! When the diagnoses came back that Don had breast cancer, she was like.."Oh my G-d! The only part of my body that still looks good are my perky boobs, and now they gotta go!". She stayed positive despite all of her fears and she came through like a trooper. With her positive attitude, the love and support of Cliff, her devoted, loving husband of over 25 years, and her gorgeous children, Donna is "A SURVIVOR".

Donna's oldest child, Erin, is engaged to be married. Her son Alex was there with his girlfriend too. Ronda's oldest, Eric, is also engaged and getting married June 5th. Her daughter Lisa was there with her boyfriend. Her middle son, Spencer, is away at school. I remember all these kids when they were born.

It's amazing how fast time goes. I realize that more and more now that I am older. I have learned that I should try to enjoy each day! Live in the moment! Live fearlessly and laugh often!

Last night's party was a celebration of friendships and birthdays, but also, it was a celebration of life! L'Chiam.

To my sweet, wonderful, loving friend, Donna Joy. Your name says it all. You bring Joy to those around you. Your sunny outlook and laughter fills the room. You are a survivor. A strong and brave pink warrior. I am in awe of your courage. You are a stellar example to your children and to others. I am so blessed that you are my friend. I wish you and Cliff much love, health and happiness on this birthday and all others.

I love you. Happiest of happy birthdays!

...of course this blogpost wouldn't be complete without PICTURES!!!

Enjoy.