MERCY'S FABULOUS 40!

 by: MisS VictoriA DaviD

Life begins at 40 as an old adage goes quoted by the late Walter Boughton Pitkin. There is so much truth in the saying as this is when we don't care much what other people think about us; we appreciate the meaning of life profoundly and even value the most simple things we once discarded in life. 

On the 04th of December this year, a pre-organised birthday social gathering was arranged for her 40th year of existence on Earth. It was zingy shared amongst her incessant sisters, recent friends and additional faces in the group. Apart from the glamorous company of her ladies, the presence of Mercy's amicable husband gave her confidence to jovially blow out the candle on the cake. 

(David and Mercy)

Mercy's life elatedly came into being when she met the inamorato of her heart who cheered her up and supported her endeavours in life. Ever since then, David's love for Mercy gave the way to turn most of her and their dreams into reality. Their life love story is like the euphoric version of Cinderella and her Prince Charming in a fairytale book!

All of her friends were invited but only 12 glamorous ladies confirmed the pre-organised dinner that was arranged by Krystal Ordillano. She used the online social media, Facebook, to create an ad hoc page intended for Mercy's Fabulous 40! Such power of combined new technology and the ubiquitous internet which brings more convenience into our daily activities. Additionally, it was an efficient and cost effective method of communicating to the invited friends and guests. 

(The organiser, Krystal Ordillano)

Bustled Piccadilly Circus teemed with frisky people and calmed Savini at Criterion lined-up with dining table sets... 

 

As I walked into the venue I saw the tapering structure of the enormous hanging chandeliers; they were overpowering the brass effect high ceiling. Besides, they were also enlightening the ambiance of Savini at Criterion. I walked further into the venue and went up a short plight of steps then I saw long paned Victorian windows that created a humble abode effect and a handsome nouveau stone fireplace shone out its polished beauty. Amusingly, it reminded me of Lady Catherine de Bourgh's fireplace at Rosings. It was of prodigious dimensions! On the other hand, I suddenly found myself thinking of the warm feeling I have being at home. 

Our formally laid table was set and arrayed with cutlery & plates; drinking & wine glasses; types of bottled water & sauces and clear vases with coffee seeds & candles. The prearranged chairs were half full but with the presence of the birthday celebrant herself and her husband. I was new in the group which is why Mercy introduced me to her friends who arrived early. We exchanged names with a bit of chit chat while waiting for the rest to arrive. Gradually, they appeared one by one until all of the empty chairs were occupied by the glamorous ladies who came from different parts of England. Most of them have known each other for years and their cordial personalities were warm when I was socialising with them. Particularly with Kristine, Daisy and David (Mercy's husband). 

Upon waiting for the rest to arrive, we were also munching the complimentary white/brown ciabatta rolls that we glazed in butter, dipped in olive oil and soaked in balsamic vinegar. It filled us all up while waiting for our starter to punch the clock of the birthday meal. They served us with one of Milan's most iconic and authentic dishes called Risotto alla Milanese. I have to say that the creamy compound ingredients penetrated well the cooked Italian rice grains and sustained their flavours, too. Apart from that, the Carnaroli/ Vialone nano grains were cooked in such a way that the crunchiness was retained. Especially the truffle's unique aroma and taste made the plates' presentation more appetising in our all our eyes. It was superb! 

(Courtesy of Google Images)

We had a short break and enjoyed our desired drinks but complimentary bottles of wine were just on the table. Chit chats continued and catching up progressed amongst us. I have to say, we were all buoyant and high-spirited because of selfies and group pictures. Why we would not be? Bright people always capture memorable moments for them to keep and share to their family and friends. Am I right glamorous ladies? 

The waiter showed up and we were asked who was having this and that for the main course. It was primarily a meat viand called Sirloin of Veal sliced which was medium grilled or done. It was dressed, seasoned and served on our plates sprucely. It pleased my taste buds with the way it was done. In particular, the sides of the meat were rich brown colour; top and bottom charred darkly and the middle was still firm to touch. 

Our plates were collected and we were now left with our drinks to clear out the passage of our throats. The organiser handed over to each and everyone of us a token of appreciation and for attending Mercy's birthday party. It was a goody bag containing personalised red wine bottle for Mercy's 40th birthday, luscious chocolates and a Yuletide card. Very thoughtful and sweet of Kristine to even surprise us despite being under pressured because of the untraceable ordered cake. I took my hat off to her for holding her composure during the unexpected circumstances. I was once an organiser of events in the past and unexpected issues will test your equanimity. It was a grace under pressure for Kristine which went very smoothly after the birthday cake was traced and found out. 

Most of us sat back and relaxed while some headed into the powder room. They were freshening up for more selfies and group pictures. Just a joke! Hmmmp, we were a bit loosen up and also very much ready to be filled up with the dessert and be fascinated by its appearance. It was an apple-pie order which invited most of us to take different image angles of Tiramisu. What a satisfyingly addictive and I wish the fork was made out of chocolate, too! 

The untraceable cake was handed over to the Savini employee and it came back on our table with a delightful lit candle. A melting moment colourful cake generously stuffed with small, pulpy and edible berries and moated with edible white/dark brown chocolate sticks. Apart from that, the desirable birthday greeting was made out of chocolate and edible, too. It was a chocolate syrup and sweet delight! 

We were all very full up and the gathering continued with the handing over of memento from the celebrant herself to all of us. She wrapped with love a Mediterranean spa scented candle made from nature's own wax; an overpowering dried flower calming scent bag and a miniature thoughtful remembrance card. 

The taking of selfies, group pictures and the used of Kristine's polaroid camera brighten once again the beauty of the glamorous ladies. We were all dressed up and bound to have more pictures to depict how cheerful we have been. Succinctly, we calmed down and all went back in our chairs where we enjoyed sipping our chosen hot drinks with complimentary biscuits from Savini at Criterion. 

Birthdays are one of the most special or if not, the memorable events in one's life!

DAYANARA MESMEIZE'S 47TH GRANDIEST BIRTHDAY PARTY

 by: MisS VictoriA DaviD

Our loving mothers nurtured and carried us in their wombs for 36 weeks. On the 19th week, they loved and appreciated every flutter and kick we made. It brightens their way of thinking and gave their lives more importance compared to what it was before. When the time came to deliver us into this world, our first wail vanished their experienced pain as they were holding their precious baby in their arms. That is why, our natal day will always be special to our mothers and for us, children. 

There were seven loving friends who offered undying help and advice. There was also a loving partner who gave encouragement and assistance in the grandiose creation of the sole Dayanara Mesmeize' 47th birthday venue. It was an exacting experience but the end result was an opulent transformation of Selly Oak and Bournbook social club venue. A very rewarding outcome that was cheerfully adored and complimented by her venerable guests who came from different parts of the United Kingdom. 

(Before and After)

The clock was ticking for the party to commence while the venue with 10 beautifully ornamented round tables and embellished chairs awaited for the arrival of her à la mode guests. She was expecting around 100 friends to appear in their colourful gowns and blend incognito into this year's birthday theme, Masquerade.

The confirmed guests were all snugly sitting down on their designated chairs and happily getting to know who is who on their table. It was already dinner time when all of the guests appeared and that is why, a buffet style feast was prepared and served warmly by VIP Catering Benedict Yap Torres' employees. Scrumptious food choices which were certainly filling and fuelled more the spirit and vigour of her loving guests. There were more than 80 guests who appeared at her party but Dayanara was mostly touched when fresh from their honeymoon in Las Vegas, Puja and Paddy, went straight to her party after arriving at Birmingham Airport. Apart from the adorable couple, the regular appearance of Mary (Dayanara's affectionate work colleague) never let her down by attending consistently every year. 

(VIP Catering Benedict Yap Torres' employees)

  

 

 

(With Puja and Paddy)

No more hungry tummies as well as depreciating energy levels. That is why, the overhead lights turned dim and the voice of her sterling hostess for the last 6 years, Alexandra Marie Diaz, introduced astoundingly the birthday celebrant herself, Dayanara Mesmeize. She walked gracefully and wore a sweetheart neckline yellow above-the-knee full dress skirt with glittery platform heels and a pair of chandelier earrings. She bewildered everyone by her regalness on the red carpet. Largely due to the joint efforts of her Hairstylist, Yurie, and Make-up artist, KC.

(Hairstylist, Yurie, and Make-up artist, KC)

Everyone greeted her as well as appreciated the elegance of her welcome appearance. She walked around to thank personally the guests and to have pictures with them, too. The time came for her to walk back discerningly to the dressing room and change her dress for the opening song number. 

There she was once again on the red carpet but with her Michelle Obama's inspired dress. She was inspirationally holding a microphone to sing her opening song number entitled, My Love Will See You Through. A classic love song loved by most Filipinos and heard around the world for it evokes the true meaning of unconditional love of and for someone else. She overwhelmed the guests with her powerful voice and melted their hearts, too. That is why, they sang with her half way through as for love will see you through... 

The microphone was handed back to her amiable sister and best friend, Alexandra Marie Diaz, who gave a brief statement before broadcasting the life story of Miss Dayanara Mesmeize in a form of a video. The birthday celebrant sat on a creamy upholstered chaise lounge before the video was played. It was a compilation of photos of her with beloveds who gave continuous hope and strength in life, and most especially to her partner, Mark, for the greatest love and profound understanding. The video was played continuously but with a surprise as it included all of the previous birthday celebrations she shared with her family and friends. Most especially when she turned 39; when it all started. 

(The Hostess, Alexandra Marie Diaz)

(With Mark)

The grandiosity of Miss Dayanara Mesmeize' birthday celebration each year wasn't for ostentatiousness and bravura per se. She started holding her own party with a purpose when she soon turned 39 years of age. The intention of her heart was/is to share her blessings with everyone, specifically with the Asilo De Molo Home For The Aged as well as to her indigent neighbourhood in Iloilo, Philippines. According to Miss Dayanara, her life's vision was changed when she went through a successful triple heart bypass. That is why, she prefers more to share the blessings she has been receiving rather than to indulge herself in any fancy things or extravagant holidays. 

That is indeed a life story of a woman with a heart who found her true calling in life... 

The night of the masquerade resumed with everybody in it. Yes, they were all in it as they enjoyed powerfully a few intermission numbers prepared by her dearest friends. Such as the affectionate and wannabe singers Yurie and Ambie who sang That's What Friends Are For and the London's pride duo singters, Miss Huggy McGuire and Miss Geyzhel Sparks, who dressed-up coordinately in their Victorian inspired fashion promenade costume coats. There were also a few exhilarating entertainers who wore colourful outfits and portrayed different personas on stage. However, the guests (most especially the ladies) were much more boosted when the beefcake stripper, Zach, appeared in his tight policeman outfit. They were thrilled and amused to see Zach erotically continued dancing in his fitted red shorts while displaying his toned tattooed body.

 

(With Yurie and Ambie)

 (With Miss Huggy McGuire and Miss Geyzhel Sparks)

 

 

 (Beefcake Stripper, Zach)

The commotion of the ladies pacified and the birthday celebrant emerged differently; she was wearing a floor-length glitz mermaid cut sequence gown. This was when she blew and cut her sacchariferous bright birthday cake with a glowing Cinderella doll motif. 

The birthday party had a theme called, Masquerade. That is why, most of the guests were asked to create their costume masks and wore their best gowns on the night of the event. Each of them exhibited their own costume mask like models on the runway before they all gathered up on stage like life-sized Barbie Dolls. There was only one who modelled it fairly and received a cash prize of £100.00. The Best Dress Masquerade Award was given to Angel.

 

 (Best Dress Masquerade Awardee, Angel)

The formality of the event finished and it was replaced with some groovy music. The centre floor only intended for Miss Dayanara's red carpet became everyone's dance floor. Yes, it was the stimulating dancing time which continued until the wee hour of the next morning. 

One by one they bid their goodbye to the celebrant and thanked her for the wonderful night. All of the guests were very delighted and it gave an immeasurable smile on Miss Dayanara Mesmeize face; who is now looking forward to what will be the next year's theme. 

*Information and Photos/Video Courtesy of Dayanara Mesmeize's Facebook Account