Where in the World Birthday

Last Tuesday was my birthday.  I had no idea what to expect from it.  In fact I kept saying “I’m not turning another year older until I can actually celebrate.”  I was hoping to not be older until my siblings’ shared birthday in July.  However, it was far better than I expected so I guess I’m older…

To start my sister planned a “Where in the World is Elena” Happy Hour.  I didn’t know about it until my FaceTime rang.  It was my 2 cousins in “Ireland” (aka New Jersey) to enjoy a beer.  It was fun to catch up with them and celebrate.  After awhile the “flight attendant” gave me a 1 minute warning until takeoff.

Before I knew it, I arrived in “Paris” (aka Norwalk, CT) to enjoy some champagne with my brother and sister-in-law.  They enjoyed their drink with the Eiffel Tower in the background while Parisian music played.  Before long the “flight attendant” gave me my 1 minute warning until takeoff.

And I was off to Mexico (aka Milford and Startford, CT) to enjoy a margarita with 2 friends from grad school.  They welcomed me with tacos and and chips and salsa, as well as stories from their virtual teaching days.  “Your flight takes off in 1 minute.  Finish up,” the flight attendant said.

Within minutes I landed in New York City (aka Lordship, CT) where I enjoyed a martini with my aunt.  Then I was off again to my final destination…

South Africa (aka Miami)!  Where I enjoyed a delicious red wine with my cousin who celebrated her birthday 1 week before.  We chatted and before long were interrupted again by the flight attendant.

Where was I off to now?  Even though I hadn’t enjoyed a full drink at any of the places I went I still didn’t know how much I could take.  

The screen popped on… “1, 2, 3…Happy Birthday to you!  Happy Birthday to you!  Happy Birthday dear Elena!  Happy Birthday to you,” sang 25ish friends who joined the Sing-a-Long birthday Zoom call organized by my best friend, Katie!

What an amazing birthday surprise!  I couldn’t have asked for a better celebration during this crazy time!