Birthday Prep

I learned quite a few years ago that the best way to make sure I have a good birthday is to make my own plans.
So, everything is in place for a spectacular day.
Today, I went to Trader Joe's and I splurged on a bottle of dessert wine. A tiny bottle of wine that costs $19.99, but it will go well with the chocolate cake with chocolate icing that my husband plans to bake for me.
The icing for this cake is tricky. It's boiled icing that is supposed to harden, kind of like homemade fudge, the kind not made with marshmallow cream.
As I was checking out at Trader Joe's, I mentioned that the wine was for my birthday celebration. A few minutes later, another check out clerk showed up at the line with a bouquet of flowers for me, compliments of Trader Joe's.
So now I have my flowers to enjoy all weekend and the anticipation of my birthday on Monday.

I have to teach from 8-2 on Monday, but my last class has already made plans for a class party. They're the ones who thought I was in my 30s, so, of course, I'm going to celebrate with them.
As soon as class is over, I'll scoot up to the salon for a facial (a gift from my husband) and a manicure (a gift from my daughter).
I've already purchased marinated lamb tips for dinner, so we'll have dinner at home followed by cake and my scrumptious dessert wine.
How bout you? Do you plan your own birthday celebrations?

Awash in Chocolate

Do you think it's possible to have too much chocolate?
I know. That question sounds ridiculous even as I say it, but the chocolate lying around my house gives evidence to the contrary.
My husband bought me chocolates for Valentine's Day and I still have a few left.

Then last week, for no reason except that he's romantic and fabulous, he brought home a small box of chocolates when he walked past the chocolate shop on his way home. 

For my birthday yesterday, he traveled to the Godiva shop to pick up some more delicious chocolates.

 And, of course, what sort of birthday cake would I want? Chocolate!

This chocolate bombe, as it's called, comes from Pistacia Vera in German Village Columbus. It is filled with chocolate mousse and the chocolate outside has a definite French chocolate taste to it. 

Having too much chocolate is quite a dilemma. There are only two ways to fix it -- eat it or share it.

I wish you were all close enough to share... but since you aren't...