Happy Birthday Danny!

Since one of my best friends in Beijing, Ali, moved back to New York a few weeks ago things just haven't been the same.  Ali was the Planner Extrodinaire of our group and, thanks to her, for 1 1/2 years I didn't give a single thought to my social life.  I just followed her directions on when and where to go.  She planned at least three vacations for 15 of us, knew about the lastest restaurant/bar openings and remembered everyone's birthdays.  Before she left however, she passed this torch, in some form, on to me by asking me to organize our friend Danny's birthday.  

Danny is one of the funniest people I have ever met.  He wanted everyone to be there for his birthday, but did not want any surprises.  He comes off as crazy, and is, but also has a sensitive layer hidden inside.  

In talking with him about his birthday the options we discussed included: a house party (hosted by friends of ours that never volunteered their place), go-karting, hiring a clown, and renting out an Olympic venue and having wrestling competitions between our friends, just to name a few.  We finally agreed on an all-you-can eat/drink Japanese restaurant.

Needless to say he enjoyed himself, and the cake and cupcakes I made.  So, thanksfully, my planning debut went off pretty successfully, but it sure made me appreciate Ali all the more.