Category Archives: birthday

Happy 6th Birthday, Banner

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Happy 6th Birthday to my mellow, orange cat. Banner aka Mr. Fluffy Butt

Banner Turns 6: Peace, Love, and Orange Fluff

Today my sweet Banner turns six — which, in cat years, puts him right around 40 in human years. Middle age. The era of “I could jump up there… but the universe is telling me to chill instead.”

Banner has always been my mellow gentleman. A big, soft, good‑natured orange fluff ball who radiates pure 60s flower‑power energy. Honestly, he’s a total throwback. Peaceful. Unbothered. Friendly to everyone. If he had thumbs, he’d be flashing peace signs and wearing a daisy tucked behind one ear.

And then there’s his social side. Banner is the cat who runs to the door when the doorbell rings. While Balboa disappears behind the headboard like he’s avoiding the draft, Banner trots over to greet whoever’s visiting. He’s basically a hippie politician — shaking hands, spreading good vibes, and campaigning for universal treats.

Every now and then I can coax him into a burst of play — a jump, a pounce, a brief moment of “wow, man, I can still move.” He always looks surprised at himself, like he just rediscovered gravity.

He’s the perfect counterbalance to Balboa’s intense, territorial, “I am the rightful ruler of this condo” energy. Banner just shrugs, flops over, and lets the world be what it is. Banner knows who he is. A vibe. A mood. A cloud with whiskers who may or may not have experimented with a little “grass” in his youth — and I don’t mean the catnip variety.

The Mischief Behind the Mellow

For all his mellow, flower‑power charm, Banner has a streak of mischief that keeps life interesting. He’s earned a few nicknames over the years — Mr. Fluffy Butt, Wreck‑It Ralph, and Mommy’s Little Helper — each one a tribute to his unpredictable moments of enthusiasm.

My favorite story? The day he stole my car keys. I searched everywhere, convinced I’d lost my mind, until Banner came trotting out with them dangling from his mouth like a trophy. He looked so proud, as if he’d just solved the mystery himself. That’s Banner in a nutshell: part gentleman, part goofball, and always ready to lend a paw… even if he’s the reason you needed help in the first place.

So happy birthday, my gentle, groovy boy. Welcome to middle age. You wear it with peace, fluff, and the kind of charm that makes every visitor feel like they’ve wandered into the friendliest commune in town.

 

 

When Pele Sends a Birthday Card: Turning 75 With a Bang

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Three-Quarters of a Century… Already?

Thank you to everyone who showered me with birthday wishes. Somehow, I’ve managed to make it to the three‑quarter‑century mark. Seventy‑five. It looks ancient on paper, but honestly? Other than a few arthritic grumbles, I feel pretty darn good for an “old babe.”

What really gets me every year is how many people take the time to reach out. For 364 days, I wander around thinking I’m just living my quiet little life. Then my birthday rolls in—usually accompanied by a nor’easter—and suddenly my inbox explodes like I’m George Bailey in It’s a Wonderful Life. I never realize how many lives I’ve brushed up against until that one day when everyone pops out of the woodwork. It’s humbling, heartwarming, and a little overwhelming in the best way.

Enter Hawaii, Stage Left

KilaueaThis year, even Hawaii decided to join the celebration. And if you’ve been following this space for any length of time, you already know I can wax poetic about Hawaii until someone gently pries the keyboard from my hands. Especially when it comes to my favorite diva of the Pacific: Kilauea.

My very first trip to the islands was to the Big Island, and I spent a full day exploring Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park. I drove Chain of Craters Road, peered into the caldera from Volcano House, and saw my first plume of vog where lava met the sea. Kilauea was quiet that trip—too quiet—but I was hooked. I wanted to see an eruption with my own eyes.

Chasing the Elusive Eruption

Since then, I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve returned to Hawaii. Oahu? Check. Pearl Harbor? Absolutely. Maui? More times than I can count. The Big Island? A repeat favorite. Kauai? Not yet—but hey, I may be 75, but I’m not done adventuring.

Volcanoes National Park is always on my itinerary, and I’ve had some close calls. One year, Kilauea started huffing and puffing while I was on a park tour. Rangers and visitors lined up at the observatory, watching the lava lake glow as darkness fell. Little fountains teased us from the caldera. The excitement was electric.

Lava Lake Glow

And then—because this is my life—nothing big happened. My tour bus rolled away, Kilauea still grumbling but holding back. The next day, I flew home… and she blew her top while I was somewhere over the Pacific. I watched the eruption on the news, muttering “Really?” at the screen.

A Fiery Birthday Gift

Which brings me to this year. My birthday. My big 75. And what does Pele do? She sends me a present.

Episode 42 of Kilauea’s eruption began at 1:50 p.m. HST—on my birthday. High lava fountains shot into the sky, with bursts reaching 1,000 to 1,200 feet from the north vent and 800 to 1,000 feet from the south vent. A full‑blown, fiery celebration in my honor.

I may not have been there in person, but it’s the thought that counts. And honestly? As birthday surprises go, a volcanic eruption is hard to top.

What a spectacular way to kick off my next lap around the sun.

Sugar and Spice

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Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice

That’s what little girls are made of…

Yesterday, we took a stroll through the most popular boys’ names of 2025, but we didn’t quite make it to the girls. That hardly seems fair, does it? So today, let’s turn the spotlight where it belongs—on the names gracing baby girls across the country this year.

Drumroll, please… Without further ado, here are the top 10 girls’ names of 2025, each one carrying its own charm, history, and whisper of personality.

🌸 Top 10 Girls’ Names of 2025

  1. Olivia – With Latin roots meaning “olive tree,” Olivia evokes peace and friendship, much like the olive branch itself. Nicknames include Liv, Ollie, Via, and Olive.
  2. Emma – A timeless classic with German origins, Emma ranked third in popularity back in 1880. After a quiet spell, it began a steady climb in the 1980s and hasn’t looked back.
  3. Amelia – Derived from both German and Latin, Amelia means “industrious” or “striving.” It’s a name with wings—just ask aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart. Nicknames: Mia, Amy.
  4. Charlotte – Elegant and enduring, Charlotte has long been a favorite in the U.S. Its popularity soared after the birth of Princess Charlotte in 2015, adding a royal sparkle to its charm.
  5. Mia – Originally a diminutive of Maria, Amelia, or Emilia, Mia has blossomed into a standalone name beloved worldwide for its simplicity and grace.
  6. Sophia – A name that transcends borders, Sophia surged in U.S. popularity in the early 2010s and continues to shine. It means “wisdom,” and it wears that meaning well.
  7. Isabella – Regal and romantic, Isabella rose to fame in the Middle Ages thanks to figures like Queen Isabella I of Castile. Today, it remains a top choice for modern royalty-in-the-making.
  8. Evelyn – An ancient name with Norman roots, Evelyn has gracefully evolved into a contemporary favorite, balancing vintage charm with modern appeal.
  9. Ava – Short, sleek, and stylish, Ava has been a top-ten staple since 2005. It’s a name that feels both classic and current.
  10. Sofia – A global gem, Sofia appears in many forms—Sophie (French), Sofiya (Slavic), and more. It’s tied to the Greek goddess of wisdom and the Christian concept of Holy Wisdom.

 

✨ And That’s a Wrap…

From timeless treasures to modern marvels, these names carry stories, symbolism, and a sense of wonder. Whether you’re naming a new arrival or simply savoring the poetry of names, each one offers a glimpse into the hopes we hold for the next generation. After all, names are more than just labels—they’re lullabies, legacies, and little sparks of identity.

So here’s to the Olivias and Amelias, the Sofias and Mias—may their names be as lovely and lasting as the lives they’ll lead.

The Name Game – Boys

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Baby Names: Then and Now

Unless you’re expecting a baby—or like to name your furry dependents as if they were human—you probably don’t spend much time thinking about baby names. Or maybe you’re one of those folks who’ve always disliked the name your parents lovingly (or randomly) chose for you, and you’re considering a change.

Whatever the reason, I found myself curious about how names have evolved over the years.

I was born in the 1950s (yes, I know, I’m vintage!), and back then, many names had strong biblical inspiration. Think James, John, David, and Deborah. Mary and Ruth were staples too—names that carried tradition, meaning, and a sense of timelessness.

So what’s trending today? Spoiler alert: Deborah didn’t even crack the top 20. But James is still holding strong at #5.

👶 Top Ten Baby Names for Boys

If any of my readers are currently wrestling with baby name decisions—for a child, a pet, or even a character in a story—let me help. According to the latest data from the U.S. government, here are the top 10 baby boy names, fresh off the press:

  1. Liam – A short form of William, Liam hails from Ireland and may owe its popularity to stars like Liam Neeson and Liam Hemsworth.
  2. Noah – Straight out of the Bible, Noah built the ark and saved mankind (and a whole lot of animals) from the great flood.
  3. Oliver – A classic name popular in the U.S., UK, and Australia. It always makes me think of “Oliver Twist.”
  4. Theodore – With ancient Greek roots meaning “gift of God,” Theodore offers charming nicknames like Theo, Ted, and Teddy.
  5. James – Another biblical favorite, James has stood the test of time as a strong, traditional name.
  6. Henry – Derived from the Germanic name Heimirich, Henry means “home ruler.” Nicknames include Hal, Hank, and Harry.
  7. Mateo – A nod to Spanish heritage, Mateo also means “gift of God” and is the Spanish version of Matthew.
  8. Elijah – Another biblical powerhouse, Elijah was a prophet and miracle worker in the Old Testament.
  9. Lucas – From the Greek “Lucania,” this name is also linked to the Latin word lucerne, meaning “to shine.” Lucas is the “bringer of light,” with nicknames like Luke and Lucky.
  10. William – A perennial favorite, William has never left the top 20 in America since 1880. You just can’t go wrong with Bill.

👧 Coming Soon…

We’re out of space for now, but don’t worry—the top 10 girls’ names are coming soon in a follow-up post. Stay tuned!

 

Your Birthday Is in September—Are You Special?

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🎉 Your Birthday Is in September—Are You Special?

Calendar page for the month of September. Closeup, top view ...

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According to Good Housekeeping, the answer is a resounding yes. They’ve compiled a list of 21 reasons why September babies are extra special. I won’t spoil the whole list, but a few fun facts caught my eye—and I couldn’t resist sharing.

🍼 Fact #1: September Is the Most Common Birth Month in the U.S.

Let’s do the math. September is the ninth month. Human gestation takes about nine months. So what was happening in the U.S. right before January? Ah yes—holiday parties, mistletoe mischief, and New Year’s Eve revelry. It all adds up. Conception abounds!

1,300+ Baby New Year Stock Illustrations, Royalty-Free ...

 

 

🎂 Fact #2: September Babies Have a Better Shot at Reaching 100

The article doesn’t explain why, but statistically, more people born in September live to see triple digits. Maybe it’s all that autumn air and birthday cake?

Father Time And New Year’s Baby (Old And New Year)

🚌 Fact #3: You’re Likely the Oldest in Your Class

Thanks to the September 1 school enrollment cutoff, many September-born kids get an extra year before hopping on the big yellow bus. That means a head start in height, maturity, and maybe even snack negotiation skills.

School Bus - Customizable Clipart Image

🍁 Fact #4: September Folks Are Less Prone to Mood Disorders

Could it be the crisp fall weather, golden leaves, and pumpkin-scented everything? Whatever the reason, September babies tend to be a little sunnier in disposition.

😮‍💨 Fact #5: But… You’re More Prone to Respiratory Issues

September giveth and September taketh away. Asthma and other respiratory conditions are more common among those born this month. At least you’ll be cheerful while catching your breath?

☀️ Fact #6: Born on September 16? You Share a Birthday with Positive Thinking Day

Coincidence? Maybe. But if you’re a September 16 baby, you might just radiate optimism. Or at least have a good excuse to fake it.

🍕 Fact #7: My Personal Favorite—September 20 Is National Pepperoni Pizza Day

That’s right. You can celebrate your birthday with pizza and cake. Two major food groups, one glorious day. Yum!

 

77,000+ Pepperoni Pizza Stock Photos, Pictures & Royalty ...

🎈 That’s a Wrap

If you want to see all 21 reasons, check out the full article in Good Housekeeping. As a February baby myself, I can’t vouch for the accuracy—but I might be just a teensy bit jealous.

So here’s to you, September stars. May your month be filled with joy, deep breaths, and extra slices of pepperoni pizza. Happy Birthday!

photo credit Deb Neumann