SURPRISE!!

Now that it has been another three weeks between posts, I can finally say why I haven't been writing much lately. I was busy in the yard as usual, but this time it was specifically because we had been rushing to get ready for the surprise 35th anniversary party we were throwing for my parents. Katie and Logan and I planned this party to celebrate their 35th anniversary in part because we didn't celebrate their 30th anniversary very well. It was only four days before Logan and I got married, so it was a very busy time!

The party took place on Saturday the 7th, and it was a great time! We had a slideshow set up inside on the computer to show photos from my parents' wedding and early married years. We also had a lovely cake made by the woman who made our wedding cake, and my aunt and uncle's cake 20-something years ago! And we had great weather for our backyard party. About 50 people came- a very good turnout. My parents were truly surprised and enjoyed seeing all of their friends. We had the pleasure of playing host to their friends Frank and Shari who came from Tahoe for the party. Shari was wonderful to help us finish up the last-minute tasks, and she really made the party go smoothly.

Below are some photos from the party, as well as the recipe for the orzo salad I made for the party. Quite a few people requested it.

The happy couple, 35 years ago today! (June 16, 1973):
Ready to leave for the honeymoon:

Waiting for the guests of honor to arrive: The buffet table at the party:

Our backyard, full of people!:
Matt, Logan, and other guests enjoying the festivities:
The lovely cake, made by Barbara Gardner:
Dad and Mom cut the cake:
Chloe enjoys the redwood mulch in the backyard:
Katie and Chloe snuggle up:
The next morning we went to breakfast at Hobee's, and got this nice picture of Mom and Dad with Frank and Shari:
And in non-party news, Clark and Logan are still the best of buddies: Clark likes to sit on the deck bench and look very regal while surveying his kingdom:
Orzo Pasta Recipe:
Heat 1 tsp. olive oil in skillet over medium high heat.
Add: 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
1 cup chopped zucchini
2 minced garlic cloves
Stir in: 1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes (optional)
Saute for 2-15 minutes, depending on taste
Combine mixture with 3 cups hot cooked orzo and 1/4 tsp. salt
Toss well
This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled for a large crowd (I made 5 recipes for 50 people)
1/4c. raw orzo = approx. 1 cup cooked orzo

'Til next time...