Bring on 60!

Birthdays are special in that you can add an additional layer of celebration to everything you do, and a bonafide excuse to do it. While it seems there is a theme of alcohol around this extended celebration, the alcohol is only a ticket for exploring new things, catching up with and meeting new people, and supporting our community.

My first surprise came from my good friend Jake whom I have known since high school. A 60 day facebook tease culminated in a personalized video of our friendship. How clever, creative, humorous, memorable and fun - just like Jake! Following her facebook tease, she helped me journey through the past 60 years so I could appreciate the highlights, lowlights and crazylights of my life so far. I enjoyed remembering my life chapters and want to recapture some of the interests and enthusiasm I've tucked aside over the years.

The Turk gave me free reign over the weekend. First I wanted to visit our local distillery Cotherman Distilling Company that is open only on Friday evenings.  Mike started with vodka and now has expanded to gin with whisky aging in barrels. He has put everything into his business, a true labor of craftsman love.

such pretty bottles!

and the vodka comes out here

whisky is aging

juniper pods for the gin

The Turk and I needed to visit more spots, so off we walked to the wine bar at House of Beer. I have to say that we weren't impressed by the wine selection nor the wine information. We did have a try and pondered our next stop while we sipped. 
Next stop was Stirling Wines, a true wine bar in our little downtown. The selection was impressive in its breadth of countries and grapes. There was no issue in sharing a glass. In fact, they poured a serving into two wine glasses for us. The staff was knowledgeable and fun. We will return, and may even join their wine club. We could hear the live entertainment on the patio which added to the atmosphere.

which one(s) to choose?

'Celebratings' continued the next day with a bike ride to our little downtown where we tried a new spot for brunch. 9th Bar is located just off the bike trail so it was very convenient.  The Turk had to get hot chocolate and I had to taste. Delicious and home made! The dinosaur liked it too. Breakfast was creative and delicious - a hash made with brisket and eggs, an elaborate egg sandwich with eggs, cheese and ham. YUM! We were energized to walk the large art festival the rest of the morning, just two blocks down.

dinosaur guards the hot chocolate

We rested up so that we could enjoy our special dinner at Massimo's. The food and wine were delicious and we enjoyed a three hour feast. I ordered lobster risotto because I'd never had risotto in 60 years! The Turk had steak and didnt have to return it. Note: the Turk returns most of his steak and fish dinners because of over and under cooking by the kitchen. Massimo, the chef/owner knows what he's doing!

it looks like the rolled cookie is blowing out the candle

no one left in the restaurant!

A San Francisco friend came to Orlando a few days later and we met her in the city for lunch at The Artisan Table. Food was fine, but she surprised me with a birthday desert - delicious carrot cake with pineapple puree. Wow!

Alison and old person with carrot cake

Let the lunch begin!