6.05.2012

Chris' Pork and Beer Surprise

Chris turned 4-0 in May so naturally I threw a surpise birthday party for him Sunday---June 3rd.  Makes sense, right?  Actually, it kind of does.  He was deep in the middle of Anatomy finals during his birthday week and finished up his last final this Friday.   And, you have to admit it added to the "surprise" element of the party.

Earlier this year when we were in Atlanta over Spring Break we had some incredible meals.  One was at Abattoir where we feasted on meat, had lots of nice beers and enjoyed the old fashion feel. Another was at Empire State South where we feasted on something called In Jars.  It was an assortment of incredible southern spreads.    There lies the inspiration for Chris' celebration.  I knew immediately after I saw (and tasted) the In Jars that I had to recreate this for his birthday party. 

An old fashion Pork and Beer Party!   

I found the perfect pig invites.  Mel of the Elsmo Four eagerly jumped on board and created an amazing and unforgettable menu.  Brian got Chris out of the house on Sunday morning which was a bit difficut because ....let's just say Chris was being a little difficult about the late start to the day.  Ang put together the menu and did her creative thing which she does best.  Even Chris' school co-workers helped contrive a plan to throw him off the party scent when inadvertently an email was left up for Chris to see at school.  Man, a lot goes into creating a surprise...actually keeping the surprise.

In the end it was a success.   The party was one for the books, Chris was surprised and we all had a blast.  Perfect!  We have some really wonderful people in our lives.  Now...... I'm out of the surprise business.













In Jars- served alongside assorted charcuterie from Publican Quality Meats and homemade breads, toasts and crackers
  • Pork Rillettes
  • Apricot Mostardo
  • Whipped Feta
  • Salmon Rillettes
  • Pimento Cheese
  • Bacon Marmalade
  • Sweet & Sour Cucumbers

Passed
  • North Carolina Style Gwa Pao (pulled pork and pork belly)
  • Kale Chips
  • Rosemary Potato Skewers
  • Brussels Boats

Beer Tasting--assorted varieties

Carrot Cake Cupcakes

(I can't pick a favorite!!! )


6.04.2012

My Little Fish

ARose wore her swimming suit every day last weekend (literally) in anticipation of the pool. "Can we go to the pool now"; "Is the pool open yet?"; "Ready?"---that's what she asked me every hour or two. I'm not sure she really remembers the pool from last year but lately when we drive by the pool she asks when it opens. I think M put her up to this. Last weekend was a scorcher here and, alas, our little fish hit the pool. Looking forward to many more of these summer days ......I can't quite lounge at the pool yet.....but I can see the future!!