.

I had a birthday recently.

But now that I’ve entered my 6th decade? I can’t say I celebrate like I used to.

Though my sweet husband tries.

.

.

A lovely flower arrangement was delivered late morning.

.

.

And he insisted on driving an hour and a half north to a restaurant we tried once and liked.

.

.

The place had erected bubble tents for segregated seating during Covid and because they were so popular, they’re still in use.

.

.

Cute… but when it’s 11 degrees and starting to snow?

.

.

I prefer indoor dining.

.

.

My spiced pear cranberry mule?

Perfect. It tasted just like Christmas.

.

.

And though I devoured some excellent crab cakes before I thought to photograph them, I did get a shot of the husband’s

CIDER-BRAISED BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP

Cinnamon Crème Fraîche with Crisp Kale…

Just as he ruined the decorative swirl.

.

.

My

CAJUN SHRIMP PASTA

Roasted Sweet Corn, Sweet & Spicy Peppers, Garlic-Parmesan Cream Sauce, Pappardelle Pasta, Micro Cilantro, Lime….

Was spicy and fantastic after I requested they leave off the cilantro.

.

.

The husband chose a

SOLSTICE HALIBUT

Lemon Quinoa, Warm Squash Confit, Heirloom Cherry Tomatoes, Meyer Lemon Marmalade, Beurre Blanc, Pea Tendrils….

Though I have no idea why since he hates quinoa and didn’t eat the tendrils. That left him with a piece of fish and a half a cherry tomato… for $46.

.

.

The sky on the drive home was photo worthy.

.

.

And our backyard buddies greeted us upon return, so I’ll call it a good day.

Even though…

.

🥴

.