So, 70 days from today, I’ll wake up 50.

June 6, 2009 in Patti turns 50!

There is much to say about this turning of the 50, but this post is a simple "can you come?" kind of post. Since I first mentioned that I want to eat at Topolobampo on my 50th birthday, many folks have emailed to ask if I was serious. Absolutely.

Unfortunately, Topolobampo is closed on The Big Day (the 32nd anniversary of Elvis' death, in addition to my 50th), and so I'm looking into eating there the night before, on August 15th instead.

Topolobampo is in Chicago.That's in a whole 'nother state. So I guess you could say that it's not really convenient to where I live in North Carolina, and it's really expensive, but man is the food good. And the little man who seats you at your table is seriously skilled. Worth a trip. Worth turning 50 for. And 60. And 70 and beyond.

And so, I'm dragging my family into the car for a road trip. They don't know this yet, so mum's the word. I'd love to have you join me there for dinner on August 15, 2009. It ain't cheap (I'm not kidding about that–start saving) and since writers make absolutely no money until Hollywood turns their story into a blockbuster starring Johnny Depp, I can't pay for your dinner even though I'd love to be able to, but if you'd like to experience some seriously good food and amazing service, and join me in wishing Emma a happy 17th birthday (she was born on my 33rd birthday), please let me know if you'd like to join us! The nice people at Topolobampo need some advance warning, you know. Yee-haw. It's Obama's favorite restaurant, so I'll send him a little invite too.

I would love to have you there. It just wouldn't be the same without you.

About Patti Digh

Patti Digh is an author, speaker, and educator who builds learning communities and gets to the heart of difficult topics. Her work over the last three decades has focused on diversity, inclusion, social justice, and living and working mindfully. She has developed diversity strategies and educational programming for major nonprofit and corporate organizations and has been a featured speaker at many national and international conferences.

13 comments to " So, 70 days from today, I’ll wake up 50. "


Beth Cooper-Zobott

June 6, 2009 AT 10:06PM

“Mum’s the word”….I’d say “YUM’s” the word!!!!! Dave and I are in…can’t wait – we’re ready for more yummy margaritas and to meet your wonderful family!!!! Put us down for 2 people.

Dani Webb

June 6, 2009 AT 10:32PM

Emma was born on your birthday…what a magical gift. I love love love that you are planning, scheming and excited for your birthday. Sometimes adults lose the enthusiasm for birthdays…I love the example you set. Beautiful.

Rick

June 7, 2009 AT 12:38AM

Patti, this call’s for you. I think it is Airstream on the line.

Kim Mailhot

June 7, 2009 AT 9:48AM

Hi there Patti !

Have you ever had someone who met you for just a few hours say that they missed you after you were gone?
I was lucky enough to be totally and completely present on June 2nd in Deerfield, NH at the Lazy Lion Cafe for that magical evening of connection with you and the great gang of people that showed up there. I missed you the minute I walked out of the cafe that night. There is something about you, kiddo! You have figured it out. You connect with people on a heart and soul level. I sure felt it ! Locking eyes with you and chatting with you felt like I was spending time with my wise, funny and only slightly older sister. How strange yet perfect is that ?

I would so love to be there as you throw yourself a 50th Birthday Dinner Extraordinaire in Chicago. I threw myself a great one for my 40th with 20 or so woman friends and we rocked the 40’s big time with love, laughter and lots of dancing ! I can only imagine what the wonderfully talented and imaginative Patti Digh will come up with to entertain her troops with that night ! Lots of birthday candles, for sure !!! ;)
Anyway, it doesn’t look like I will be there in person but my spirit will fly there to help you ring in the wonder of turing 50, surrounded with loved ones and loving ones !
Oh and by the way,…

I miss you.
Warmly and in soul friendship,
Kim Mailhot
aka The Rock Fairy

Gwyn

June 7, 2009 AT 10:56AM

I ditto what Dani said. I am all about celebrating birthdays at any age. I would love to say I can join you, but it is unlikely. Still August 15th is 2 months plus, so I won’t say absolutely no!

Deb Call

June 7, 2009 AT 3:00PM

Patti – How weird – timing wise – I just booked our flights to Chicago for that same weekend to see our daughters! We’ll be arriving not only to visit with our kids, but to celebrate my 58th birthday. I’m a few days ahead of you (the 11th). I’ll get back to you soon on this, but in the meantime, I’m in the Greenville SC area (75 min. drive from Asheville) and would love to meet you soon.

Sally

June 8, 2009 AT 10:21AM

May I please be there in spirit?

Jenny Walker

June 8, 2009 AT 5:01PM

I am very glad to see I wasn’t the only one counting….started at 101….just 9 to go…..JW

Teen Blog Buddy

June 9, 2009 AT 12:52AM

Happy early birthday to you, sorry I won’t be able to join, though I do love Chicago and shopping the magnificent mile, navy pier, ah all of it. Sorry, I digress. So anyway, Mums is the word, I won’t tell your family they are in for a road trip nor the dinner out.
Have a fabulous time, don’t forget to take pics and tell us how the night went.

Ashlurker

June 9, 2009 AT 10:54AM

That restaurant is soooo worth the effort!!! My sister and I went there for a spectacular lunch a few years ago. i can still taste the guacamole. I will be there in spirit. In body, I will be taking my 2 yr old to Brasil. What an adventure!

piscesgrrl

June 9, 2009 AT 12:53PM

Wait, what? Chicago? That’s my neck of the woods! Well, sorta. 90 miles. I will want/hope/plan to join you. :)

Kathryn Ruth Schuth

June 10, 2009 AT 7:56AM

Instead of wanting to be the fly on the wall, I’d very much enjoy taking a seat at the table. I’m in for “1”.

Miss Marshall

June 11, 2009 AT 2:12PM

I’m thinking yes on this one, Miss Marshall. Count me in.