Photo by Gillian Mangan

What Is It?

What is your idea of the perfect gift?
For my 50th birthday, my family hosted a party. I had two requests: I wanted to be surrounded by those whom I loved and I wanted to dance. Both requests were spectacularly met. I had blisters on my feet from dancing as proof. I’m not big into cardio so four hours of dancing took its toll! Well worth it, however.
My friend Tracy, whom I’ve known since high school, surprised me with a champagne toast. But not just any toast. Tracy supplied bubbly champagne in bottles with customized labels of pictures from my past. Thankfully, she spared sharing photos to my guests that were less than flattering.

Why Keep An Empty Champagne Bottle?

I have been extraordinarily lucky in the friendship department. Tracy is no exception. Yet, she and I went years, almost decades, without seeing or speaking. That’s how life goes sometimes. But, when we would reconnect, we picked up as if no space or time had occurred between us. The past few years have brought us closer, I think, in large part to the fact we are getting older. We appreciate what we mean to each other. And we support one another when facing tough challenges. We also both LOVE to dance.

Tracy, Custom Champagne Label maker and All Around Great Friend.

I cherish this particular bottle because the customized photo wine label includes two other longtime friends, Jenny and Kelly. This photo is over 20 years old. I think we look the same, don’t you? Well, Jenny and Kelly do. Actually, they look better in their fifties…and in terrific shape. I am their token out-of-shape friend. My only regret is Tracy failed to find a picture that included her, so here is one to remedy this injustice.

Where Do I Keep It?

The empty champagne bottle sits on what I call my “Shrine of Love” on my bedroom table by the window, reminding me of a magical night and forever friends.

The Best Part About Turning 50

You’re alive so that’s a good thing.
You get cake. Mine was the chocolate-vanilla-more chocolate “Spider Cake” from Betty Cakes in Ocala, Florida.
At this point in your life, you know what to treasure, friends included. And really delicious champagne with labels worth a lifetime.

If your friends were like champagne, how would you describe them?