Fanning the Flames of Her Passion (II)

Aimee was about 22 when I celebrated my 50th birthday.

She told me that she wanted to organise a party for me and that I was not to do anything except be there.

What? said I. My friends would expect me to make at least one curry.

All right, said she, but that is all.

Aimee is at her best when she is allowed to let her creativity flow unchecked.

She handmade the stunning invitations, began planning the menu of heavy finger foods and, believe it or not, began contacting companies, telling them that her mum was about to celebrate a milestone and did they have any samples they could give her for glad bags.

We had samples coming out of our ears! Beautiful body oils, creams, teas, Baby Cham (Aimee could have bought those herself), handmade soaps from a little cottage business down south, plus heaps more, all couriered to our home!

She got little bags that she filled with the goodies and told me that each female guest would get one to take home!

The day before the cocktail party, she was bustling about doing the shopping, arranging the furniture and preparing the various dishes that needed to be marinated.

On May 21, more than 50 people rocked up and they were treated to the most amazing culinary feast ever. I cannot recall how many courses Aimee served with the help of two friends who looked so professional in their "uniforms". A couple who adored my daughter (and I don't blame them) contributed their famous mouth-watering herb-crusted roast beef and that too went down really well.

As for me, I was brimming with pride - there was my daughter being the perfect host, taking the challenge in her stride and acting as if this was something that she did every day.

No fuss, no bother, just coolly creating platter after platter of moreish morsels that had our guests oohing and aahing all night long. The women were doubly delighted with their party bags - as the night was not just about me but about the wonder of womanhood and they all had played, and continue to play, a part.

To every one out there with a son or daughter, or both as I do, caring and cuddling and mothering them are fabulous. But one feels so blessed when they grow up and actually also become your best friends. Life becomes soooo good.

My story about Aimee is far from over. In fact, it is just beginning.

However, if you're planning a party (big or small) in Perth, Western Australia, and would love to serve up food or a spectacular grazing table that has been lovingly created, drop Aimee a line. aimee.nivatvongs@hotmail.com .