I can't believe I haven't posted about Valentine's Day yet! It was just so surprising and so amazing that I'm afraid whatever I say about it just won't do it justice. (Which is also why I still haven't put together our wedding album). Ok...so for now I'm just going to reveal ONE of the Valentine's Day surprises I received and then tell you about our evening last night. Valentine's Day surprise #1: Bailey & I have FLOOR SEATS to THIS in June! Row 24 (I think). WOW! More on the crazy - I - absolutely-don't-deserve-this Valentine's Day later. Now...last night:

Mark & I were invited to a surprise 40th birthday party for one of his co-workers/friends. I have met this guy once before - but certainly didn't KNOW him. So I was sort of dreading the evening...a room full of people I didn't know - ugh. But I was very pleasantly surprised!

We gathered HERE where we were greeted with a glass of champagne. (See? Already a good night!) The evening was surprising and highly enjoyable. The chef gave us little lessons and a demonstration at each course (there were 4), educated us on each wine (a different wine with each course) and taught us how to make the dessert. So fun!

Here was the menu:


First Course:

Risotto alla Milanese
Saffron Risotta Garnished with Shaved Parmesan
Wine - Valley of the Moon Pinot Blanc


Second Course:
Seared Scallop atop a Cauliflower Puree with Carmelized Shallot Sauce and Chive Oil
Wine - Maison Faivelely Joseph Faively Bourgogne Rouge


Third Course:
Filet Mignon on Potato Gratin (the potato thing was out of this world!) with Truffle & Wild Mushroom Crepe, Garlic Sauteed Brocolini and a Red Wine Reduction
Wine - St. Mary's Bell's & Whistles, blend of Cabernet, Shiraz, Cab Franc and Merlot (This wine - Yuck, by the way)


Finale:
Banana Tarte Tatin with Frozen Hot Butter Rum Sauce
Wine - Scagliola Moscato d'Ast (YUMMMMMM!)


A fun experience with new friends. I really should get out more...I always DO enjoy it.