I love the anticipation, drama, gift opening, surprises surrounding my birthday.

My rock steady husband is all about a quiet day in the country with his family.

Yesterday, was his birthday and we feted him in dignified style as he had preordained.

He woke up to cards, presents and a cappuccino in bed.

He bonded with his doggie on a birthday stroll and she, too, left him presents of a disposable nature.

We headed to the Hamptons to have brunch with a view by the water, watching boats drift across the marina while pretending calories consumed near the ocean somehow do not count.

The mood was easy, relaxed, and exactly what a birthday should be.

His one wish was to have the pool open for his celebration and I said, (channeling Rapper’s Delight)…hip-hop, the hippie to the hippie, the hip, hip-a-hop and you don’t stop rockin’ and just like that the pool was open under a warm, clear blue sky.

His wish is my command.

Back to The Hamlet for glorious pool time, sunshine, and David swimming 100 laps to offset the inevitable homemade berry pie with fresh whipped cream later in the day.

Aging teaches many things, but perhaps most importantly, never skip dessert.

Dinner was summer on a plate, featuring Tuna Napoleon with grilled Ahi tuna, daikon sprouts, ginger, cucumber, avocado, toasted sesame seeds over rice with fresh ponzu sauce and wasabi.

Simple. Meaningful. Perfect.

Happy Birthday, David.

Beautiful weather. Amazing family. Good food. No fuss.