So, we celebrated Seemah's Birthday last Thursday.....And it was a lot of fun. There were eight of us all together and that was a perfect number. There was Kim Hamilton, who is always a little early and I love that....!
And it was really wonderful that she was able to come because she has been working all week....and Thursday was the only day she didn't have to work.....but she was back at work on Friday. "Private Practice" is the show she is doing.....and she plays a woman with Alzheimer's....Her husband-caregiver is played by Billy Dee Williams....And most all of her scenes are with him and with the extraordinarily talented Audra McDonald.....I have no idea when it will be on...But, look for it when that show comes back in the Fall.....Anyway....Back to the Luncheon....
Lisa Zarowin arrived next....She was a very dear friend of Seemah's daughter Ellen, who died at the age of 42....And she has remained great friends with Seemah...then Lee Meriwether arrived and Bridget, right behind her.......
These two are like sisters---they are great great friends and professional colleagues, as well, having worked together so very many times.....They love to joke around, as you can see from the picture above....
And then, the Beautiful Birthday Girl, herself...Seemah. It is not possible that Seemah actually turned 84 years old this year...! As long as I have known her she has never looked her age....! And Seemah and Annie Guilbert came together because they both live in Pacific Palisades and are great great friends, too.....Here is Annie, giving and getting a lovely hug from Lee.....
Bridget had picked up Betty because they live fairly close to each other and Betty cannot drive anymore because of her eyesight. Betty had a darling little companion that she brought with her----a cute little 'friend' that she wanted us all to see.....
This is a hand puppet, and he is a Seal....He is so cute, you cannot believe it. Of course, what makes him cuter is Betty.....The whole family had just came back from 10 glorious days in Hawaii and that is where Betty met her new and dear 'Spotty'....Here is a little Video of them....
And here is another view of the table from the other side, looking more towards the living room.....
In the picture above I had a little Vase filled with some lovely roses from my maid Lucy's garden.....They were so very pretty....
But then.....I put the larger arrangement on the Luncheon Table and the sweet little roses on the Living Room glass table.....This is another lush abundant and magical bowl from Van.....The "artist" Extraordinaire, whose shop is called The Conservatory....
You have to see this arrangement much closer....Here below, a little bit closer we go.....
And below, getting in closer yet.....These flowers were, once again, quite extraordinary.....
And one last one at least in this post....(lol).....
Each time I have one of these "Ladies Who Lunch", part of the fun for me is deciding which plates to use.....It felt like these plates below were the right thing for this particular Birthday Lunch!
I think I am remember this correctly---where I got these plates, I mean....My memory is that they were part of my mothers collection of China....We never used them---at least, I don't remember her ever using them when I was around, but, I'm sure she did, and I think she used them for Luncheons....I just think they are so very pretty....
This is a closer look at the center bouquet....It is so delicate and the colors so soft and lovely.....Then below, a close-up detail of the edge of the plate.....
The above appears four times on the plates, evenly distributed at Noon, 3pm, 6pm, and 9pm and then below, another detail that appears in between the ones above...Also, four times.....
And once again....the whole plate, below......
Part 2 of Seemah's Birthday Celebration will be posted next time.....
- had this to say:
I just love the way you ladies celebrate birthdays!! such wonderful pictures, lovely decorations and a delicious birthday cake!! It's funny, your friend Kim always wears that type of overall, lol! Makes it easier in the morning, trying to decide what to wear :)
Love your mom's china, which I suppose has to be washed by hand. My MIL has wonderful china but never uses it because of that...which is truly a shame!- Tuesday, August 5, 2008 at 1:01:00 AM PDT
- had this to say:
Oh, and the bday girl doesn't look 84 at-all!!
- Tuesday, August 5, 2008 at 1:02:00 AM PDT
- had this to say:
I see another wonderful lunch was had by all - and I agree - the Birthday Girl looks very good for her age!!
Loved the footage of Betty with her whale, er, seal, lol!! Too cute!!
And your plates are divine! They look deco to me, 1920's?? Perhaps 30's maybe. The colours are gorgeous. You are very lucky to have them.
Thanks for sharing!!- Tuesday, August 5, 2008 at 4:17:00 AM PDT
- had this to say:
If you hadn't have mentioned the Birthday girl's age I would never have guessed it! But then there is a youth and exuberance in all you ladies and it really comes across in your posts and the photos.
Those plates are gorgeous and look wonderful set on the table with those dear little blue glasses. Those flowers, are the icing on the cake for your table. Beautiful colours and plump creamy textures. They look just like dessert!
Looking forward to part 2!- Tuesday, August 5, 2008 at 4:24:00 AM PDT
- had this to say:
Seemah is amazing! I would have never guessed she was that age. Everyone looks nice, Naomi. I will look for Private Practice when Kim is on. I am sure it will be a very good show.
Your cobalt glasses make the table! and they look great with those lovely dishes. Van is a genius, I think. Tell him I said so.- Tuesday, August 5, 2008 at 5:26:00 AM PDT
- had this to say:
You girls sure know how to celebrate with style!
- Tuesday, August 5, 2008 at 6:29:00 AM PDT
- had this to say:
A Very Happy Birthday to your friend Seemah!
LOVE her party! All is so beautiful...the birthday cake, the table, the decoration and these wonderful antiques plates! The video also is cute! Sounds you all had a lovely moment of joy! I would like to be there!
A big hug to you all!- Tuesday, August 5, 2008 at 7:02:00 AM PDT
- had this to say:
I love when you show your party pictures!
Sheemah is incredible! (so are all you ladies!)..it's not in the water that makes you all look so young is it?
Lee, of course is beautiful as ever, and I adore the video of Betty and "spotty" lol..too cute! Hand puppets are so much fun !
I love it all, can't wait to see part II- Tuesday, August 5, 2008 at 7:12:00 AM PDT
- had this to say:
Beautiful table, flowers and setting. You ladies all look beautiful and so vital. Long term friendships are revitalizing.
- Tuesday, August 5, 2008 at 9:08:00 AM PDT
- had this to say:
LA beware! The Ladies Wot Lunch are back in business!!
Happy Birthday Seemah, and you definitely do NOT look your age :-)
Looks like you all had a cracking time as usual.....can't wait to read more!
cq- Tuesday, August 5, 2008 at 9:27:00 AM PDT
- had this to say:
Good Tuesday morning to you, Naomi ! How are you doing ?
I love seeing your friends together for your celebrations !
Seemah looks beautiful - I would not have thought she was 84.
And the rest of your friends are equally pretty - such joy and dignity and graciousness and genuine warmth in each of their faces...
As usual, your tables are magnificent. The china, the glasses, the gift boxes, the cake, the exqusite flowers.
You put such detail and effort into making everyhting lovely - it really shows.
How lucky these women are to get a treat like that - as well as the treat of your ongoing friendship !
Naomi, blogger is not including your blog in the update list.
I've got you as one of my links, but it won't show you as updated or the name of your latest post like it does with everyone else.
Seems you have to have a 'feed' - you have to click on 'yes' in your settings somewhere in your dashboard after you sign in to blogger.
Don't know if you want to adjust your settings to do that, but, I'd love to know when you post new posts !
((hugs))
Loving Annie- Tuesday, August 5, 2008 at 10:22:00 AM PDT
- had this to say:
I love these lunch posts they are always so much fun,I have to live vicariously because I don't have a group of friends like this, you are very blessed.
The birthday girl looks barely 60 if that !
You are all amazing ladies.- Tuesday, August 5, 2008 at 3:16:00 PM PDT
- had this to say:
Naomi, fancy you thinking that dear little Spotty was a WALRUS! Shame on you! He's a gorgeous cuddly furry soft (and very intelligent) baby seal!
What a lovly birthday table, love the plates, and the flowers are beautiful.- Tuesday, August 5, 2008 at 5:48:00 PM PDT
- had this to say:
You ladies sure know how to celebrate life! I love the table, the beautiful decor and flower arrangement. It all looks so inviting!
Betty's video is the cutest thing! I love her seal!!
The ladies are all gorgeous. None of you look your age. I need to take a dip in your fountain of youth!
I can't wait to see more of your fabulous celebration! Show us the presents!! :)- Tuesday, August 5, 2008 at 6:17:00 PM PDT
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had this to say:
Another great party, Naomi! Beautiful table and flowers. I especially love seeing the photos and you are truly blessed to have such great friends.
Looking forward to part 2.
Anne- Tuesday, August 5, 2008 at 7:03:00 PM PDT
- had this to say:
That cake looks delish!
Your table setting, etc. looks amazing! Good job!
You're lucky to have such good friends. Isn't it great?!- Tuesday, August 5, 2008 at 7:08:00 PM PDT
- had this to say:
A very happy & healthy birthday to Seemah.
You are a wonderful hostess, Naomi, and it's always a pleasure to see these b'day celebration photos. This diverse but tight group of women who come together for all the right reasons: laughter, friendship, memory making and memory sharing (okay, and also for a nice meal and a sweet dessert!)
Looking forward to part 2.- Tuesday, August 5, 2008 at 7:59:00 PM PDT
- had this to say:
Looks like quite a birthday celebration. Interesting how precious belongings are preserved less something happen to them, then may never be used. But glad you and friends can enjoy that lovely china.
- Tuesday, August 5, 2008 at 10:27:00 PM PDT
- had this to say:
I love that you get to have these wonderful get-togethers. I didn't realize (or maybe I'm just dim) that one of your friends is on my soap. That's so cool. Also I always think of you when I watch "Burn Notice." Are you atching it this season? I also have a few hand puppets and have so much fun with them. Thanks for the pictures and I loved the plates.
- Tuesday, August 5, 2008 at 11:18:00 PM PDT
- had this to say:
You ladies do luncheon so beautifully!
Your china is divine - so glad it is being shown off and eaten off.- Wednesday, August 6, 2008 at 5:53:00 AM PDT
- had this to say:
Wish I was there as buttler for all you charming ladies. And see the "Spotty" show live and the fantastic China. Really beautiful and with an extrodinary design. The table is wonderfully decorated and the flower arrangement is really unique and fabulous.
Can't wait for the luncheon to get started.- Wednesday, August 6, 2008 at 8:32:00 AM PDT
- had this to say:
Everything looks wonderful, from the guest list to the decorations.
I love it that you know how to take and post videos. You are too cool!- Wednesday, August 6, 2008 at 10:31:00 AM PDT
- had this to say:
I laughed out loud at the Spotty video. That puppet would drive the boys nuts! LOL
We are in the birthday run in my family. Mom's on Monday, mine on Friday, my BFF this week, an aunt next week. Lots of Leos in my life! Not a surprise, eh? LOL
I love the china too. I have two sets. One I got for my wedding and the other was my grandmother's that I inherited. I should take a picture to show you, I think you would like it.- Wednesday, August 6, 2008 at 12:03:00 PM PDT
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had this to say:
Hi Naomi. Looks like you girls had a great time once again. Friends are so special. Always hold them dear.
I was blessed last weekend by a girl friend I worked with 29 years ago was intown from Florida this past week, and was able to sit and chat with her for a solid 3 hours. We have not been together in over two years. All of my best friends have moved to warmer temps.Whats up with that:)Again thanks for sharing your special friends with all of us.
Pat from NY.- Wednesday, August 6, 2008 at 12:34:00 PM PDT
- had this to say:
what a fabulous day! every detail is amazing - full of attention and joy
84!!? all I can say is WOW!
I'm a big fan of 'Private Practice' - it comes back on in early October on the ABC network.
It's a great show full of smart and funny women - and a few guys too :)- Wednesday, August 6, 2008 at 3:12:00 PM PDT
- had this to say:
Lovely party - friends and those whom we have known through all life's changes are precious to our hearts. Love to see the photos of all these colorful and loving gatherings. Hugs.
- Wednesday, August 6, 2008 at 6:48:00 PM PDT
- had this to say:
Your attention to detail is great! Love the table setting and I'm not a cake fan but that cake looks super yummy!
- Wednesday, August 6, 2008 at 6:49:00 PM PDT
- had this to say:
Gorgeous flowers, especially the lovely scented tiger lily which is my favorite.
Here in Malaysia, we also have such group gatherings, friends from school days that back dated since 1960s...
I know how its like to gather, to eat, to laugh, to share with friends from the most wonderful past.
Happy birthday, 84, to the lovely lady who simply does not look her age. YOU must have looked after yourself well, love thyself well and eat well.
Naomi, I too enjoy reading your writes.
A pal for afar, Malaysia.- Wednesday, August 6, 2008 at 8:54:00 PM PDT
- had this to say:
I wish I could use a better word but the word to me is I FEEL lots of love, warmth & happiness :D
Happy Birthday to Seemah and all the glow on everybody's faces just lit up mine too.
I love the presence of friends and the bond there as well as the colourful display on the tables plus many many other things Naomi.
I wish I could be there to soak in the fun :)- Wednesday, August 6, 2008 at 9:08:00 PM PDT
- had this to say:
Oh, I love the parties at your house...the china is lovely...what pattern is that? I am going to tune in to see Kim in Private Practice. I wish we had a place that had flowers as beautiful as the ones you have there. I can't believe the birthday girl is 84!
- Thursday, August 7, 2008 at 12:01:00 AM PDT
- had this to say:
Naomi, Everyone looks like they are having a wonderful time. I love your mothers china, how lovely. Betty and Spotty are so cute together, I really enjoyed watching them.
Lee looks so young, she really has held her age well. I just love Billy Dee Williams and I will be watching for the movie. I'm looking forward to part two.- Thursday, August 7, 2008 at 12:29:00 AM PDT
- had this to say:
Gorgeous plates, gorgeous glasses, gorgeous spotty. lol What a wonderful time!
~S- Thursday, August 7, 2008 at 6:47:00 PM PDT
- had this to say:
I don't know why, but I am totally digging those little bowls of fruit on the plates. What an awesome table you always set up. Kinda puts to shame my plates (Dixie) and table (couch, usually with a feline sitting on me trying to eat my food).
- Thursday, August 7, 2008 at 7:35:00 PM PDT
- had this to say:
Naomi, yet another (fabulous) birthday post about (another) dear friend. I do love these type posts - makes us feel as if we were there sharing the day with you and your bestest buddies.
The flowers are lovely, the plates are divine...but I cannot get over the wonderfully cute Spotty. Lol!!
Great to read that Kim is going to be in an upcoming episode of Private Practice. I'll have to keep my eye out for her in the future...
And the birthday girl? I don't believe she turned 84. Nope. Don't believe you.- Thursday, August 7, 2008 at 11:40:00 PM PDT
- had this to say:
Just to look at that beautifully colourful table makes me happy - even if I can't eat the delicious food. I thought the birthday girl was 80 but 84 - wow!
Fancy you not knowing your seals from your walruses. Tut tut- poor Spotty.
Another wonderful party which I could enjoy vicariously. Thank you.- Friday, August 8, 2008 at 12:32:00 AM PDT
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had this to say:
Everything looks so colorful, inviting and festive.
- Friday, August 8, 2008 at 7:18:00 PM PDT
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had this to say:
Oh, my God, I thought I'd die laughing over the video of you, Betty and seal......NOW I can see why you ladies are such talented actresses! That was too funny!
Selma looks amazing for her age.....she's truly ageless.
Another great party and get-together with your very special friends. LOVE that china....just outstanding.
And I see our friend, Van, worked his magic once again! Awesome arrangement! Thanks for "inviting" us to share the party, Naomi.
Terri
http://www.islandwriter.net- Saturday, August 9, 2008 at 4:45:00 PM PDT
- had this to say:
I love the china Naomi!! It's so lovely! The video of Spotty is so cute! What an adorable puppet!!
Seemah does not look anywhere NEAR 84!! Surely there is a mistake of her birth year!! She looks so young!!- Tuesday, August 12, 2008 at 7:01:00 PM PDT
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