Gail Clarkin
Sweet Rae - The world is a much better place with you in it! You are a “caregiver extraordinaire “. I watched you take care of your mother and Ken in their last years. You were always there for them. They were so lucky to have your love and attention. I know if I needed something, you would be there for me too. I wish for you a wonderful second 50 years of life, and may all your dreams come true. Happy Birthday! Much, Much Love to you Rae💖
Will Roth (the husband)
Below is one of my favorite Rae stories. The one where Nan told her they found her in a coconut on the beach. This is how I think it went down...
Cissie and Bill Roth (the parents-in-law)
Cissie and I would love to wish Rae a super 50th and let her know impressed we are that she has put up with Will for this long. Our only regret is we don't get to see our California family more often. Lots of love and best wishes to a wonderful mother of our super grandchildren. Bill and Cissie.
Sandra (Abbott) Berger
Has it really been fifty years when I first saw 5-month-you in Hawaii? You were a super baby and were happy to go anywhere your mom and I took you. That was the first of many times I enjoyed being with you over the many years. Lots of love, Aunt Sandy
Diana Galbo Welsh
Happy 50th Birthday Rae! Wow, I can't believe we are a half a century old. Don't you still feel like you are a high school kid? I remember when you came over to our house in Sausalito around the year 2000. I had not seen you in ages and we had a rather grown up conversation. I recall feeling a little concerned that you had actually grown up and matured, and why would you want to bother with me anymore!? But we went on to have some great times in Marin and you were the same warm, funny, loving person that I always remembered. It's been such a pleasure to reconnect with you again in Coronado when I come visit. I have such fond memories of our 30th reunion weekend - so many good laughs with you and all of our old friends. And thank you for opening up your lovely house to everyone. It gives me a happy feeling every time I am there - warm and inviting just like you are. Have a wonderful birthday dear friend! XOXOXO, Diana
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| June 2001 @ Diana's wedding, Christy, Rae and Kathy |
Shelly Madruga
Happy 50 spins to my best friend! What can I tell you about Rae? She's the Lucy to my Ethel Always coming up with a funny scheme and great ideas. Like the plan to make pop corn balls for Charlie's preschool class. Charlie standing on a stool next to me in kitchen, the two of us trying to form little popcorn ghosts. When that became a sticky mess she came to my rescue with Halloween treats for his group of toddler friends. Or the time when I baked a birthday cake for Sydney, our dog. Charlie, then about 3 standing at the door saying, "Where are the people? Where are the presents?" Quick call to Rae, who arrived, strolling up the walk singing Happy Birthday to a dog and carrying a bunch of presents. Once again, Rae saved the day. I clearly remember the day Rae told me she had movie star eyes for Will. Those were her exact words. I'm so glad she did because they make the perfect couple. Fast forward another 10 years and Rae and get to see our girls Annabel and Juliet become the closest of friends. The apple doesn't fall far from the tree. Rae also has great cooking skills, she is an excellent swimmer and here's one you may not know. She is a mad super sleuth. The girl should work for the FBI. I've had 20 years of calling Rae my friend. So I count myself as pretty darn lucky.Big hugs, lots of love and another 50 spins,
Shelly
Christine (Glaser) Johnston
Rae, You are my oldest friend and in so many ways a fixture in my life. I still remember coming to school in Coronado in 3rd grade and you taking my hand and showing me the bathroom. Then invited me over to roller skate along the beach and you had two sets of roller skates! I have vivid memories of running “our route” in Coronado along the beach and down by the yacht club in the evenings during high school. I can still hear you singing English Beat to me on the bus back from cross country meets…every time I hear Jeannette it is your voice singing those words to me. We had some of our first double dates together and got into all sorts of trouble... We swam with dolphins and were the best mermaid and synchronized swimmers you could ever imagine, just ask us! As we became adults I remember visiting you in New York and you came to Philadelphia. We always found ways to have a good time! You helped me heal a very broken heart at 26 by being in the right place (Coronado again for both of us) at the right time. I remember how happy I was when you married Will and when you called me to tell me you were pregnant with Annabel. You did my makeup at my wedding and made sure not to let me spill my Bloody Mary on my wedding dress. You gave my daughter Aimee her first haircut at your house in North Carolina. You always open your home and heart to me and my family. I love you and always will. Glaser
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| Rae and Christine circa 2002 not long before Annabel was born |
Molly Southern (sister-in-law)
Happy Birthday Rae! What a wonderful addition to our family. We miss having y'all near by. Glad to see at 50, with all that your family puts upon you....your head is still above water. Here is to another 50!
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| recreating on the lake in North Carolina |
Marty Stockard
Rae and I got reacquainted in Hawaii last year (2017) and bonded in the kitchen! She and I worked well together and enjoyed putting dinners on the table. I value her integrity, humor, common sense, and her sous cheffing! I hope she enjoys many more birthdays so we can reconnect!
Brad Gerbel
Let me tell you about my friend Rae MacKinnon Roth...
I have seen Rae as a teenager, a young woman, a wife, a wonderful mom, and now as a 50 year-old. I met Rae when I was 15 and she was 16, so we have known each other for a long time. In high school I knew Rae as my friend’s older sister — I didn’t know Rae’s heart.
I was lucky to be with all the MacKinnons on the night that Rae and Will started their relationship, and I saw that love grow and produce two wonderful human beings. Watching Rae interact with her kids is what started showing me her big heart.
Years ago, when Ian was in the hospital after his brain surgery, I got to really know Rae’s heart. I saw her compassion, I saw how much love is in her heart, I saw how strong Rae is. Rae is a rock of strength.
My love and respect for Rae grew even more as I watched Rae take care of her parents in the final years of their lives. Rae was loving, patient, caring, all the while being a great mom and wife.
Rae Roth is a rock star. A wonderful human being and as a lot of people reading this can attest, a wonderful friend.
God bless you, Rae. Enjoy your special day. We are all so blessed to know you.
Alan Bonine
“My Guide in The Big Apple”
So, here was her big chance. A number of years ago, Rae and I were in New York for the Belding Awards for Taylor Guitars. We were staying at the Waldorf and we decided to go out to dinner.
We took a cab to one of her favorite restaurants and had a fun time. After dinner (at which both of us were a bit “over-served” as she puts it), she announced to me that she was going to take me on a walking tour of some of her favorite parts of New York. After hoofing it for about 20 minutes, we seemed to be getting farther from the bright lights instead of closer to them. And a few minutes after that, a passerby asked us if we knew that we were in the bad part of Hell’s Kitchen. We didn’t. We grabbed a cab and got out of there.
The next day, we went to Central Park and had a great, long walk on a beautiful spring day. Then we went to Barney’s and I bought my wife, Janice, two really cool martini glasses. That night, Rae’s formal dress was so late coming from the Concierge (and the dry cleaners), that she almost missed the cocktail party. But, when she got there, she did an admirable job of catching up. We all had a great time with the client at the awards dinner.
To this day, whenever I’m in New York, and getting ready to walk somewhere, I think about Rae (and her pug stories). Happy 40th Birthday, Rae! Enjoy your 40s; it’s a really good decade.
Amy Morrow
Dear, Dear Rae - what joy you bring to all of your Winston-Salem friends! You are the most dynamic, fun and creative person around. Not to mention talented. You've blown us all away with your, let's see: knitting, cooking, sewing, graphics, computer skills, song mixing, etc. Although it's only been 3 1/2 years it seems like much longer. You are the truest of friends - your honesty and "realism" is such a breath of fresh air for me and I respect you so much for that. I treasure your friendship and look forward to many more happy memories and years to come. Now, come on - SMILE! (jazz hands!) - keep that chin up!! I'll forever remember you with that look on your face. I wouldn't mind posting a few pictures of my own if possible!! Scary, huh? I definitely "got the goods" on some funny pictures. Happy Birthday dear friend. Looking forward to celebrating here in Winston. Love, Amy
Genevieve Wiersema
Ode to my dear friend Rae on her 40th Birthday
I remember 7 years ago when Jit-B wouldn’t serve us in the drive-through without a car,
What fun we had all those times, and it all started at the Pint Size bar.
With Love & Rockets in the jukebox, we bonded over 80s tunes and beer,
Who knew after that fateful night in my heart you would become so dear?
The next big event was wig night, where we danced and acted demented,
Although we barely knew each other, after that our friendship was fast cemented.
We stayed the night in the city; you were brave to join in with strangers,
We had our wig names, many drinks, in the end there were no dangers.
Our sisterhood continued to grow - at Grant, Scott Hurley we did work and dally,
We’d take nice long walks at lunch time and down milkshakes at Clown Alley.
The olive trees in the courtyard there one night nearly took their toll,
So hitching a ride with strangers to the pharmacy we did go.
Another night was spent at Trevor’s, that evening was in no way a bore,
Jeff cracked a remark that made you sad, but not the part about being called a whore.
The Cinco de Mayo party was also fun, all of us were gluttons,
Whose idea was it to start doing tequila shots out of our belly buttons?
After a while came Samantha and Annabel…this slowed our pranks for awhile
They were such cute little girls, just thinking about it makes me smile!
It was great when we became neighbors, two great friends in the hood
We could gather for drinks and dinner, the proximity was quite good.
We’d join in for endless play dates, though the babies could barely move,
But, we’d get cheese and Ritz crackers…and wine to help us get on our groove.
We also had our movie outings in order to get a little rest
Those rainy Sunday afternoons…they were just the best.
Next came Cash and Teddy, the last but certainly not the least,
But then came the crushing news that you were moving east.
I was very sad to lose you and didn’t want our fun times to come to an end
But at the same time was very blessed to continue to have you as a friend.
So here’s to you, my dear friend Rae, as your 40th comes to a header. I can honestly say that because you are in it, my life is so much better.
Happy 40th! Love, Viva
Kurt Listug
Happy 40th Birthday, Rae!
Rae has always been a hoot to work with. She worked part time for me one summer after leaving VitroRobertson, and that was a really fun time. Rae was always on her game, and did cartwheels around everyone else in the office.I remember having lunch with Rae and Alan Bonine at the Brigantine in La Mesa, and she was about to turn 30. Wow, that seems like more than 10 years ago!
Jenny and I, Rae and Alan went to the Kelly Awards in New York one year, and Rae and Jenny got their hair done at Kenneth’s Salon in the Waldorf. Rae’s head was the shape of Gumbie’s when they were done with her, and Jenny somehow looked like a well-preserved 60 year old, instead of in her 30’s.
Enjoy your day, Rae, and enjoy this next decade! It keeps getting better and better.
Much love,Kurt
Tracy
What an amazing sister! Love this blog!
How lucky we all are that you and Will decided to blow into this sleepy (and fabulous) town. Things will never be the same--as you have touched the lives of so many people with your fresh, creative and fun outlook on life, motherhood and the state of life as it is. It is what it is!
You are: (In no particular order)
* Queen of the back dive* What Martha Stewart would be if she were cool
* Secret Cheerleader Diva (secret's out)
* The best cocktail hour companion, (is it 5 pm yet?)
* Always willing to take the plunge, even in 70 degree water....
* Courageous, in ways that inspire me. If I haven't ever told you that, then shame on me!
* Owner of the most coveted "dirty santa" sex toy ever. At least you'll admit it!
* willing to take risks--all kinds of risks!
And finally--you are an intelligent, beautiful woman, a dedicated and wonderful mom & spouse; and most of all--a dear, dear friend, confident & partner in crime. My life is infinitely blessed by your friendship! Love, Tracy
Ginny Hunter
Dear Rae,
Happy Birthday to my friend, confidant, and keeper of all secrets told at the ungodly hour of 5am as we are trudging the hills of BV in good ole Winston-Salem in our fashionable toboggans. Yes, we've become the 40-yearish old ladies we used to laugh at when we were teenagers...and we don't care!!!
Thank you for being my kind friend, my laugh a lot friend, my cook the best chicken soup and have it waiting for me on a bad day friend, my cry when you want to friend, my play date with the children on a spot friend, my reality check friend, my tell it like it IS friend, my I-can-sew-the buttons-on-your clothes-friend, my good conversation friend, my teach me how to text message friend (did you notice I figured out the punctuation on the last one??), my spiritual advisor friend, my dream interpreter friend, my share my hopes and dreams friend....my true friend. I love ya and hope you have the best of all birthdays!!
Mary Schultz
Happy 40th Rae! Where do I start? We are SO happy that you and your family moved to Winston-Salem. When Bill and Julie called us to tell us that we were getting new neighbors we had no idea that you would become some of our closest friends. We have had some funny times (how many mothers does it take to turn down a third seat in a suburban?), anybody need an outing?, etc. You have also been there for me during the most difficult times from knitting Thomas the sweet hat to just stopping by to check on me and to just being there to listen to me sort things out (even now). You are an amazing friend and I feel very lucky that you have entered our lives. Who knows maybe some day we will be related (if Will and Annabel keep the spark going) HAPPY HAPPY. We cant wait to celebrate with you.
Diane (Galbo) Welsh
Happy 40th Birthday Rae! I just turned 40 a few weeks ago and it was fabulous. 40s the bomb! I sat next to your big sister at my birthday dinner and I wished you were there too! Boy do I have some fun memories of you growing up. We have known each other perhaps 30 years? Remember in the 5th grade when everyone tried to get us to fight? I was so scared - thank goodness our calmer, female temperaments prevailed and there were no blows exchanged. You probably would have kicked my ass though. :-) I have the cutest picture of us and a bunch of friends at 12 or 13 years old on the beach, but unfortunately I could not find it for your blog. You were standing next to a surf board and had quite the tan going.
Here are a few more things I remember, looking back 30 years. Bing and Phong (sp?) with the bubble gum and noodles. Boy were those good noodles. Going to gymnastics out by USD and stopping for a big gulp after every practice. Somewhere down the line those big gulps started making me feel gross, but not at age 12! Reading the Shining in my room together. Being pestered by little Evan and Ian - who knew they would grow up to be so big! Listening to "Hot Blooded" by Foreigner (or was that just me?). Joey Walker. haha! Not really sure I have clear memories of him, but when I think back to when we were buddies at 11 or 12, Joey Walker pops in my mind. So funny!I wish you a wonderful Birthday Rae! Take care and I hope to see you very soon! XOXOX, Diana
Stephan Kuttner
Memories of Cousin Rae: and how it felt to me.
Finding nice chatty email on Facebook from Rae in NC. We love us some Mackinnon-Roths: that animate yet ethereal sense which I still get in hyperlinks to real people in my real life.
That fun pool party to send off the family to North Carolina, a baby Roth boy in the shade room with Rae, nice friends, lots of kids, gracious Will grilling great food, and nerf football in the water. The sun was out all day, and the party lasted until dusk, but seemed to end too soon: bittersweet.
Hiking with Aunt Anna, proud Rae, Will and newborn Annabel in Sausalito, among the tourists, the gift stores and seagulls: fresh and proud.
A wedding in Coronado, exuberant radiant Rae with cheek aches from all the grinning, and cameras clicking: thrilled and hopeful.
Rae visiting DC around 1980 getting spun in the unmanageable swarm of her six cousins, Grango plus friends and pets, and wowed in a thunderstorm, which was a new experience for the San Diego gal: brave and cute.
The visit with Nick to Uncle Dick, Aunt Nancy, Anna, little girl Rae and Ian in Marin. In awe of her father: just fun and noise.
here’s hope that the best memories are yet in store!
Barbara Kuttner
Dear Rae,
We wish you a wonderful 40th year. Both of us have found that life keeps getting better and better and that is what we wish for you.
I do think of you In NC, a state that has many happy memories for our family. Uncle Lou and I started our life together at Camp LeJeune and Stephan was born at Onslow County Hospital.
For almost twenty years, starting in 1963, we vacationed at Kitty Hawk every summer. If you get to the Outer Banks, think of all of us frolicking in the surf.
Much love to you, Aunt Barbara
Ludwig Kuttner
Fifty is a WONDERFUL age! You have grown so much in wisdom and grace since 40, and now the children are grown so you and Will can be more independent. We only regret that we haven’t kept in touch with you as we have with Anna. That can surely be remedied if you will visit us and stay for awhile. The guest house is comfortable and as Anna will tell you out here there is beautiful country to see and many amusing things to do. In any case, HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Gerry Widmer
Lovely Rae, Happy 40th. Most of what I want to post is not post-able.. I will never forget the day you brought me over to Nan and Capt.'s house for dinner, 4th of July's at the Club, “I hate you but drive me home”, Apple Wood Inn, VR and the crazy friendship. Your family is wonderful and I think your first 40 years have turned out fabulous. Here's to at least 40 more. Love ya and miss ya lots. – Gerry Widmer a.k.a "Geremiah"
