Tomorrow is a big day, and I'm not talking about Barrack Obama's inauguration! On Tuesday, January 20, 2009, the Goddess that IS Desiree Rumbaugh turns 50! One of the first yoga teachers to be certified in the Anusara Yoga method, Desirée is a gifted teacher. As John Friend said, she's in that class of people who only need a one name introduction: DEZ!

Desirée spent her birthday weekend here in San Francisco doing what she loves to do, teaching yoga and inspiring her students to realize the potential that lies within them. Whether that's the ability to touch their heads to their toes for the first time, heal their own injuries, or live a resilient and vibrant life -- she not only talks the talk -- she walks the walk.

All of this made her workshop—Late Bloomers: Over 50—all that more poignant! Those who were expecting to be led in a gentle flow were quickly engaged in strength-building asanas. Desirée explained that as we age we lose our flexibility more quickly than our strength. To reestablish our flexibility we MUST build and engage our strength. From push-ups to core work, she put us through our paces with the discipline of a drill sargent. She continued, "You do not have to give up any class of poses simply because you're aging. When you limit yourself, you limit your teaching."

Later that evening, there was a small birthday celebration for Dez which included a Japanese Bath House adventure (another story . . . seriously) followed by some southern Indian food (as if I would know the difference between northern & southern Indian cuisine). Sitting across the table from this strong, spirited woman, it was hard to imagine she was about to turn 50! I'm not sure the AARP is ready for Desirée!

Especially when she was trying to lick that gelato off the end of her nose.