21/01/2021
The theme was Gyspy and it was a colourful affair for Deb's 50th birthday celebration. Friends and family poured in to enjoy the celebration with this special lady who is clearly loved and appreciated.
Deb’s 50th 2021 Speech
I just wanted to say a few words before it gets too late and I can’t say anything sensible. I’ve been thinking of having this party for quite some time now (as many of you will know after copious conversations, sorry) but the other day I was listening to a Podcast which suggested that the key to a good gathering is to set an intention.
So, I actually thought about my intention for this celebration and I decided:
I really wanted to celebrate all the people who have been a part of my 50 years to date. Obviously, I couldn’t go all the way back to my early years as my family are in lockdown without any access to bottle shops. But I’ve thought about all my family and friends back in South Africa or in other parts of the world who have been an important part of my life so far. All the people who are here tonight have been in some way part of my life. I managed to go as far back as boarding school with Jackie and her other half John who I met after school and when we lived in Cape Town. Then onto the London brigade, please don’t believe anything that Dale tells you (or maybe Terrence), also Vix, Lisa, Terrence, Emily, Michelle, Kel (who couldn’t make it) what wonderful times we had during those years. Another special group of people who are here are those from our early years in this country when we were immigrants. Anyone who has been an immigrant will know how tough it can be and so Urs, Veronica, Plum, Mike thanks for your companionship during those times. Also, my Macquarie friends who are still such a big part of my life (Sal, Lis, Evie) thanks for still making me laugh. Next, the Winthrop crew, thank you for keeping me going during the kiddie years with all it’s ups and downs. And finally, my Pally Crew, I feel so lucky to work with such a supportive group of people. Some people don’t fit into any of those camps but to all of you thank you for all your support, friendship and love over the years.
One thing I have learnt about having a party is that it takes a village to have one (never mind raise a child). Thank so much to everyone who has helped to cook, clean, paint and shop. Thanks to those who dropped things off, lent me things, just generally listened to me waffle on and on about my ideas over and over again. A special mention to Michelle who actually helped me on many fronts, she cooked, cleaned, sewed and was just generally my wing-woman. Also, Kylie who always works her magic with the nibbles and her general good attitude. I can’t mention everyone who helped by name because so many people did, but thank you to all. Finally, my family, thank you to the kids who helped in their own special way. Especially thanks to Andrew who just soldiered on with my millions of requests from oiling the deck to flower shopping, to hanging 500 fairy light, lanterns, candles all of which I doubt he thought were necessary. This is his attitude every day as he just soldiers on. Thank you for always supporting me, Andrew.
