how does one celebrate a birthday?

“Each day comes bearing its own gifts. Untie the ribbons.”

― Ruth Ann Schabacker

Ok, gang. It's officially February. And I don't mind tellin' ya that it's my birthday this month...a particularly painful one, at that.

(deep breath) I'm turning thirty.

Now, I've always loved my birth-month. Celebrating my birthday so close to Valentine's Day has meant lots of chocolate, flowers and pink surrounds me each year--and I love it! I usually know exactly how I want to celebrate. Last year, it was champagne and pizza with Jake on the day, and then a special date to see the Merce Cunningham performance at the Power Center.

This year, everyone keeps asking me what I want to do. And I have no idea. It feels momentous, important, to be acknowledging this milestone. I'm not quite sure exactly how I'll decide to commemorate it, but I was hoping you all wouldn't mind if I used this space (the blog) to work through some ideas. I may actually end up celebrating in July...or maybe I'll just spread it out over the whole month of Feb. Either way, wish me well as I muse on all things celebratory!

Also, I could really use your help. You guys are all smart and classy and have great taste. Any ideas for fabulous (and budget-friendly~we're on teachers' salaries here!) ways to fete? Do tell!

how does one celebrate?

Today is Monday, and thus, I would normally be contemplating meals to make this week, trying to decide on fun things to try. Today, though, I have no thought of cooking. I may very soon have *extremely* good tidings to share, tidings which deserve celebration--wine--twirly skirts--and definitely, definitely no cooking for oneself. 

So, what would I do to celebrate something great with myself, the hubs, and maybe some family and friends thrown in?

I'd drink a bottle of this delicious wine from 45 North vineyard, located directly on the 45th parallel on the Leelanau peninsula. 

I'd wear this dress. 

With these shoes (because, nerdily, I've always wondered if cole haans are comfier than your average shoe...)

...and, let's face it, since we're talking about the mitten in early "spring," this cardi as well. 

we'd eat at this little noshy place,

and see this movie at this historic theater. 

Or, maybe I'd just cajole the hubs to hop in the car and run away with me to this serene-looking, eco-friendly hotel. 

What about you? What are your ideas for the perfect celebratory evening/day/weekend?