Happy Birthday to You!

My beautiful daughter, Serena, is one of those bright, young people who will make a difference in our indifferent world. With concepts like "sustainable", "renewable", "biodynanic" and "organic" she and her generation can possibly turn back the planet from the course of destruction upon which we have embarked.

With Cole in China again on business,we talked in the morning about the day's plan. Serena was pickling beets and planning a dinner of Carrot and Cumin Salad, Green Garlic and Nettle Souffle to share with a few friends. When she was 8 years old she expressed an interest in being a great chef because they made lots of money.



Her wildest days were in Jr High when she had her head shaved except for 4" bangs. But for the most part she has been very sophisticated, thanks to her Aunt Genie from New York.



She was fortunate enough to be able to attend her Junior year of college in Russia.







After the 911 catastrophy, Serena spent some time in Russia working. Needless to say we were a bit stressed about international travel at that time. While living in Russia, Serena rekindled a romance from her high school days. She invited Cole to Russia for exotic and romantic interludes including sleigh rides, hot baths and borscht.
When she returned to the US, she settled in San Francisco (the fruit doesn't fall far from the tree?) being much more productive than I ever was. Cole was not an integral part of her life then but was nearby cultivating his career as an architect.
Finally fate had it's way with them and they moved in together. This year in September they plan to combine their energies with a short ceremony in S.F. and a reception in Albuquerque.




Text & photos © 2005 Mona E. Dunn