So, as I mentioned in my previous post, yesterday was my birthday. I wanted the celebration to be simple and sophisticated. And it was.
First, I woke-up to a white Philadelphia. It made me smile. My “Indian name” is Birthday In The Snow… A long story for another post some day.
Second, I treated myself to a movie: The Artist. And it was a perfect balance of beautiful picture and incredible acting. Just laughed a little bit when I was able to hear Jean Dujardin’s French accent in the only spoken line he has in the entire movie. Cute.
Third, K. and M. took care of my birthday dinner: some tofu/pineapple/collard greens concoction (M. is vegan) that was a delight for the taste buds. Funny that I actually happen to really like Tofu, and I’m not sure they even knew that.
Mr. J.J. was in charge of my birthday dessert, Creme Brulee. Second year in a row, I think it’s starting to become a tradition. I’m wondering he’s going to make that happen next year.
It was a small dinner at home, just 5 of us, and it was wonderful. We cracked open a bottle of Veuve Clicquot, left-over from New Year’s Eve and had conversation about sex, death and nuclear pipes. What’s not to love?
Next and final pit-stop was at R2L, and its fantastic view of the city. There, a dozen of my friends gathered around a dessert plate (playing second serving with desserts here, don’t tell anyone), gesture of the establishment and their adorable Sales & Marketing Manager.
I realized several things last night:
1. I couldn’t have been better surrounded than by the people that were there. They’re the friends that stuck with me through good times and rough patches.
2. I have a LOT of girl friends… Gentleman, they’re such an amazing group of ladies… It you don’t snag the single ones quick someone else will!
3. My tolerance to SideCars is highly improved – which I’m grateful for. The day my tolerance for brandy/bourbon/whiskey-based drinks will be directly proportional to my love for them will be a happy day.
So, here we are, the beginning of another year. It’s going to be a fantastic journey!
To go with the temperature drop and the still clear blue sky, to match the changing foliage, to warm up our fingers, our chests and our souls, there is nothing like a nice cup of hot apple cider.