Dare I let everyone know it's the big 6 OH for Cindy. Dang, it doesn't seem that long ago we were on the back of our husband's Harleys riding through the the breathtaking mountains of South Dakota during Sturgis week . Oh the sights we saw and the fun we had. Sorry, I digress, that story is for another time.
Family and friends gathered from far and near to ready the party for the huge success it was.
The party was a surprise, and she was totally overwhelmed. Some friends drove for hours to surprise her.
The grill Queen and King, they grilled pounds of tri-tip for the party.
I heard raves about the chicken that was also served but I just couldn't quit eating the tri-tip.
I brought a Goat Cheese Torte, an appetizer that I'm usually requested to bring to parties and family gatherings. No photo but follow the link.
I also made a Malaysian pineapple and jicama salad called Rojak which means mixed up in Malay. It is a popular street snack there. I'll put the recipe in the recipe spot along with more photos. It is really delicious with a sweet salty dressing.
Someone brought the ever popular Pizza Pasta Salad. It's been so long since I've made one I was happy to see it. I'll sure make it more often this summer.

There was plenty to eat and I had more than my fair share of tri tip and beans. I also enjoyed the green jello salad with the cottage cheese in it. It's been years, and I mean years since I've eaten that and it was deeeelicious. I also had some good ol' homemade potato salad and a very refreshing tomato cucumber salad that was dressed with ranch dressing.

Cindy's daughter Lisa made her cake. Lisa the wonder woman with 6 children, the youngest being 4 mos old. The cake matched the napkins and plates.
The most delicious spice carrot cake ever.

One of the highlights of my trip to Cindy's birthday was getting to meet someone who's name I know very well but had never met. I hope his ear has stopped ringing from my screaming "I know you" in it while I was hugging him when I found out who he was. A little hint, mmmm it's time for chow.

It was a great party for a wonderful woman. I'm tempted to, but I'm not going to get all sappy. I wish everyone could be as blessed as I am to have a friend like Cindy.
Happy Birthday Girl.