For Miguel's birthday this year, we had our first oudoor BBQ potluck.  We started off the day going to the Master Gardner's Plant sale and managed to buy several more plants than expected.  Apparently we missed the "grand opening" where people push and shove to get to the front, as the clock counts up to 9:00.  At exactly 9:00 the fences come down and everyone rushes in, carts, wagons and wheelbarrows in tow.  This sounds like it would be worth it to come again next year, just to be a part of all the hype.  It's been almost a week and I still haven't managed to plant all the things we bought there, but I'm looking forward to getting to it on Sunday.

Back at our house, about 6pm people started rolling in with all kinds of casseroles, salads, desserts and things to "swap" at our mini garage giveaway.  I'm not sure why I keep having these swaps.  Generally I just end up having to make the trips to the Re-Store and the Goodwill for everyone else.  It seems like a good idea at the beginning, and truth is, I usually end up getting something out of the deal.  It was pretty fun to see everyone together again and to show off our chickens and bees and raised beds (albeit fairly empty still).  Many people were excited about the wedding plans, and had received their invitation.  All the comments are so great to hear, and I think almost everyone was surprised.  Dad said he was confused by the map and Miguel's grandmother thought it was "interesting", but overall I think it was received very well.  Now if everyone can just keep it visible and not lose them, that will be the next success.

We had the bonfire going until about midnight when the last few people strolled out the door.  We managed to have only 2.5 bottles of wine left at the end, which is pretty good considering everyone was supposed to bring a bottle.  I try to re-use all the plates and plastic spoons, so I left myself quite a mess to clean up in the morning.  Luckily mom was up visiting so she helped with it all.  

To finish off the birthday weekend, we bought fresh scallops, shrimp and steak to grill up on Sunday night, which went down well with a bit more of the wine.  

Way to bring in a new year, Miguel, and happy 32nd!