My friends organized a wonderful celebration for my 80^th birthday this month. I was so inspired by this speech my daughter Diesa gave, so I wanted to share it with you all.

Ladies and gentlemen, if I could have your attention for just a moment—I want to say a few words about someone very special tonight: my mom, or as I like to lovingly call her, The Queen Mother. 

Now, some people earn a royal aura through titles or castles. My mom? She did it the old-fashioned way: with impeccable taste, high standards, and the ability to make everyone around her feel like they’re in the presence of greatness.

And let’s be honest—everything she does is authentic. If she laughs at a movie, it’s probably worthy of an Academy Award. If she says the dinner is delicious, that restaurant should probably be world-renowned. If she says it’s a beautiful day outside, well… you probably should have called in sick and gone outside immediately.

And it’s not just taste—my mom is extremely lucky. I mean, if she wants something, somehow, magically, it appears. Whether it’s getting the corner table by the window at a crowded restaurant, finding the perfect shirt on the sale rack in her size, or marrying the most incredible man on the planet, my Dad… My mom doesn’t just live life; she manifests it. 

And of course, being a true Queen isn’t just about style, charm, and impeccable taste—it’s also about heart. Her empathy is genuine; not just for those close to her, but for all people throughout all countries.

It’s the kind of awareness and compassion you would expect from a queen: someone who understands that her influence can—and should—be used to make the world a little brighter, a little kinder, and a little more just.

Her combination of grace, courage, and empathy is exactly what makes her the Queen of our hearts.

So tonight, in celebration of her 80th birthday, let’s raise our glasses to my mom—the woman with impeccable taste, unstoppable luck, and a laugh that lights up the room. Long live the Queen Mother! May your reign continue for many more years filled with love, laughter, and all the finest things life has to offer.

Happy birthday, Mom!