One of my friends has a milestone birthday coming up this week.  She has grand visions for how she’d like to celebrate, including a band with great music, lots of friends mingling around, and people dancing the night away.  She has the perfect location chosen too:  a wonderful barn in an orchard that specializes in heirloom apples.

Her description of her special night is detailed–and glorious.

But yet again, we are in this reality called 2020, this year when nothing runs according to original plans.

Nonetheless, my friend has sent us all official “save the date” notifications:  the party will be held on September 25 of next year, in 2021. She has rationalized that since her birthday is not until October of 2020, this milestone year will technically still be “in effect”.  She’ll just be celebrating at the end of the year, instead of the more traditional beginning.

I love her attitude!

Even better, she came up with a fantastic substitute for 2020.  She opted for a small, intimate gathering.  With only seven friends, we made a very “COVID-approved” dining table of eight.  She chose a historical manor in a town just over the state line, into New Hampshire.  It features open-air dining, overlooking fabulous fall views—and fresh air to make sure we continue our vigilance.

Her insistence on making her day special meant many a silver lining and a lovely evening for all!