Virtual Pot-luck Birthday Party (long awaited!)

Wow! Thanks to everyone who brought scrumptious dishes to my birthday party. Sorry it took me so long to give them a proper venue. Things have been very busy the past few weeks!

So, without further ado, the best spread a girl could hope for on her birthday:

First, from Ginny-the perfect centerpiece for my extravaganza-a swan ice sculpture!


Next, for a cocktail-no party is complete without a signature cocktail; this is from my Uncle Jack, a Gibson:


Next, to whet the palate, a dazzling spread of olives, cured meats and cheeses, and wonderful soft, mellow roasted garlic from my Mom:


And what party would be complete without a raw chicken (from Emily & Sami)!


And a raw lobster (from Kristin):


And raw trout from Madi:



Moving onto my Aunt Karen's famous Sausage and Spinach Pie:


And my mom's Canary Island Pork Tenderloin:


And Kate's dazzling Falafel Salad:


Which was perfectly complimented by Em & Sami's Lebanese Spread:


And Becky's Portobello Lasagne:


And her mouth-watering chicken pot-pie (she should have her own blog!):


Nothing beat Amaree's beach picnic contributions (cobb salad wrap, pasta salad, and strawberry yogurt parfait):


And for dessert, this gorgeous red fruit tart from Becky was one of my favorite photos of all-I want to eat it off the page:


And this piece of delectable birthday cake from Shannon:


And party favors from my mom: fresh baked bread:


All in all, the diversity of these dishes represents the incredible diversity among my friends and family. You are all so different, you touch the palate in different ways, igniting different taste buds. I crave your friendship and companionship, and no meal, no day would complete without all of you. Thank you for celebrating with me!