Like the good little socialite I am, I went to TWO birthday parties over the weekend. My friend, Liz, says the best way to get the party you want on your birthday is to plan it yourself. I think she’s on to something. She and Christine rented a karaoke machine for their joint party, and since Liz is an opera singer, and Christine is the lead singer of Bag100, I’d say about 80% of the guest list were singers. It was cool to see all my friends, and if you are going to do karaoke, it helps to invite professionals. One guy sang something that required him to switch between two different wigs and go back and forth between the microphones. I don’t even remember the song, it was just impressive to watch. Pictures here, and video of Liz having the Time of Her Life here.

Before all that madness, Jef and I went to a party my friend, Stephanie, threw for her boyfriend, Nick. It was smaller, about 10-15 people, at his and his roommate’s place on W. 7th. It’s definitely one of the coolest places I’ve seen in Austin. The layout was square, with a small furnished courtyard as soon as you walk inside (by courtyard, I mean there is no roof, stone floors, and you’d probably consider it to be “outside”, but it’s inside the front door). Beyond the courtyard is a glass wall, and the entire rest of the apartment is laid out in front of you like one of those dioramas you made in elementary school. The living room, dining room, kitchen and one bedroom are all right there. There are two rooms that can be closed off (bathroom and one bedroom), otherwise they rely on creative window treatments. I’m a freak for unique spaces like that. Stephanie also put together a little slide show with pictures of Nick’s childhood, his family, friends, favorite vacations, past-times, homes, general silliness, etc.. They were sweet and dorky and really touching.

It was a fun weekend. Happy Birthday, Capricorns! According to Astrology.com “With Saturn — heavenly purveyor of many sought-after qualities like integrity, responsibility and discipline — as your ruler, you’re an inspiration to everyone around you.”

I couldn’t have said it better myself.