Reasons why my 27th birthday was so enjoyable:

• See above. Rio surprised me with a birthday activity sheet. I printed it out and shared it with family at a small family BBQ on Friday night. They got a kick out of the trivia corner, but were a little lost when I mentioned the ghost of Corky Gonzales.
• Oso had his own little birthday greeting, with a photo of me doing a cara de fuchi.
• My sister, Lori, and her boyfriend gave me the coolest shades ever. There will be more goofy photos of me in sunglasses.
• Lori and I tried to beat the heat (triple digits!) by washing my car. Never underestimate the power of playing with the water hose on a hot summer day.
• Despite the heat, the family BBQ and night out at the Little Temple was a lot of fun. Thanks to DJ Anthony Valadez for spinning some excellent music and putting my family and friends on the guest list. There were several times when I wanted to sit down and take a break from dancing, but then was compelled to keep going because the music was that good.
• Partying with new friends and old friends alike. Lots of smiles.
• I got to see (well, more like hear since I couldn’t see the stage) Los Lobos on Thursday evening. I kicked myself when I saw them doing a post-concert signing and realized I didn’t bring a single CD. Damn.
• I got messages of folks singing/texting Las Mañanitas. Too bad I insisted on sleeping in.

Now… if only it would cool off a little.