Iron Chef Ruby

Ruby hasn't turned eleven yet, but the festivities have already begun. Our little sous-chef chose an Iron Chef theme for her birthday party and invited her brothers and sisters and a few friends. They divided into two teams for the Iron Chef competition. Scott's team made lasagne and my team made Chicken Phyllo casserole, one of my favorites because of the fancy phyllo dough that puffs up in layers. while the food was cooking, the girls watched the real Iron Chef and Xanthe visited Coco. Knowing the black hole of attention grabbing Xanthe can be, Coco thoughtfully invited her over. Thanks, Coco! When it was time to eat and judge the dishes, some of the girls were reluctant to try the Chicken Phyllo, so the lasagne was declared the winner. Both were delicious, but the big hit of the night was the Coca-Cola. A big deal for 5th graders! And of course, the Bumpits that Taylor gave Ruby were a big hit, too. Funny what styles come and go! I can't believe this one is serious, but what do I know? I wore a florescent pink Guess? sweatshirt in 9th grade.

After presents, each girl got to torch her own creme brulee for dessert. Ruby has always been a little foodie, appreciating the finer foods in life. Since she was three, we have been going to the Olive Garden for her birthday, at her suggestion. Never glancing at the kids' menu, she would always order a caesar salad and salmon, with tiramisu for dessert. Ruby is an old soul. Recently, I asked her what it's like to be an adult in a child's body and she told me, "It can be annoying." Ruby likes order and peace and beauty. She naturally smooths contention and looks out for the best interests of those around her. She was aptly named after my grandmother Ruby, who is and has always been a peacemaker. Ruby's friends were wonderful, and it was a fun night, planned and executed by Ruby with a little help from mom and dad.


January birthdays...Lilah, Jacob, Michelle, Ruby and Alexis
Tonight was the Dopp January birthday gathering. Scott made Winger's chicken fingers salad. Yum! After dinner, the kids ran absolutely wild in the basement, where the "big" boys blissfully ignored them, ensconced in the comforts of Scott's theater. Upstairs, the ladies had a chance to visit and have seconds of the delicious cake that Lexie made. Grandma has taught the three oldest girls in the family some cake decorating skills, and Lexie really put her skills to work on a gorgeous cake. Thanks, Lexie! Ruby and Lexie have learned to open their gifts at the same time. They know that most likely, everyone has bought the same thing for both of them. they loved all the fun art and fashion stuff they got.

Well, it wasn't a quiet weekend, but it was a good one. Happy birthday, everyone!