Happy 60th birthday Rita

On the eve of Rita’s 60th birthday, I thought I’d document those 60 years with a few random illustrations depicting the aging process. This is also a tribute to Rita’s “whew” factor – the factor which saw her through a diagnosis of terminal cancer in November 1992, with a projected life expectancy of 4-6 months. Every year, on the anniversary of the (eventual) life-saving operation, Rita heaves the biggest sigh of relief and gratitude to whatever factor it was which caused her to be allowed to shake free of the shackles of cancer and commence living life to the fullest - and eating her way forward to reach 60!

Pic number one shows toddler-Rita with Mum in 1950, in Sandy Bay.

Pic number two shows Rita (far left) with her two sisters and Mum, being flowergirl at a family friends wedding in 1960. The reception was held in at a private home in Sandy Bay Road which was much later converted into what is now the accommodation venue named Gattonside.

Pic number three shows a youthful Rita all dressed and ready for a hard days work at the Hydro in May 1968. Rita’s impeccable style is obvious here, and you should note the twinset (for any youngsters who might not know what a twinset is: it’s a short sleeved, usually lightweight woollen jumper topped with a matching cardigan) plus matching coloured handbag, gloves and, although you can’t see them, let me hasten to assure you, the shoes matched as well – always! The fortnightly, princely wage Rita received for this clerical job was $42. This pic was taken outside the house where Rita boarded, in Sinclair Avenue, Moonah.

Pic number four shows a very chilled out Rita at St Helens a few years ago. Our East Coast is amongst the favourite relaxing spots for intrepid Rita who is definitely not a fan of the camping and roughing-it scenario – something she handed on in the genes to a few of her children, the oldest of whom (Princess Nellie) immediately springs to mind!

Well, that's it for the family snaps! Rita will spend the birthday eating - starting with a breakfast at Nellies, and ending with a degustation at Marque IV. Long live Rita's Bite!