birthdayness

Thanks etaureau for the birthday fireworks. I like them alot.

Mike gave me kitchen themed gifts - oven mitts that come up to my elbows in hopes I won't burn myself on the arms anymore, an ice cube tray with fish and shell shapes, and a print to hang in the strange blank space over the sink - Bat Smax!. I have loved this picture for years and years. It is happy.

Tyler gave me a super shiny bracelet that his mother made. His mother has super bead skills and the bracelet fits just right. Picture soon. Gene and I had sushi before he left town, and talked for awhile.

My father took Mike and I out to Truluck's for dinner, which was so decadent. They had these fantastic Virginia oysters I've not ever eaten before, that were sweet and almost fruit-like. I could have eaten a dozen easily. My scallops were perfect and silky, with just enough spring to them. Mike had crab for the first time ever, a giant Alaskan leg that could have been used as a weapon. He couldn't finish it, and I couldn't stand to see any crab left behind so I snatched it from his plate. The butter sauce was especially crazy good, and was served in a ramekin with a little oil light underneath to keep it warm. My father ate the crunchy trout, which was quite delicious. Then I had to decide between a number of giant desserts that were all pretty. I went with the mocha ice cream pie, with chocolate mouse, covered with cream and chocolate and raspberry sauce. Yum.

So overall, a really nice birthday.

another present

The evening mail brought The Indian Runner, a gift from coyotegoth. Yay.