16 Surprises for a 16th Birthday
16 is one of those birthdays that marks a significant milestone. It’s an onramp to new freedom and choices with the introduction of the driver’s license. It is also the first time dating is allowed for some. For all, though, it is a mental marker that this once child is growing up and is close to being a young adult. We want to celebrate that and make it memorable.
In our family, my nephew, Gabe, is always the first for everything. King of the cousins, he is the revered one that basically can do no wrong. Handsome, incredibly intelligent, thoughtful, giving, faith-filled, athletic… this one has it all. If you have a daughter around his age, I’ll begin taking applications once he hits about 22.
Because this was Gabe’s big 16 this year, my sister, Kendra, from As You Wish Design, and I wanted to come up with something unique and fun. We decided that 16 surprises spread throughout the day would make him feel very special.
Here are the 16:
1. The morning began with breakfast in bed. A tradition my sister has always done with her kids.
2. A pack of “5″ gum hidden in his backpack (“You make our family of 5 complete)
3. A decorated locker (wtih the help from some friends)
4. White Chocolate Mocha given by a friend at the start of school
5. 16 pizzas delivered (by mom) to the lunch cafeteria.
{This one was Gabe’s favorite of all 16}
6. Kendra emailed his Spanish Teacher and they sang “Feliz Cumpleanos” in class.
7. Licorice bucket for the soccer team at practice.
8. A photo collage was put on his Facebook wall from his aunt/uncle/cousins from Seattle.
9. His uncle/aunt/cousins from Santa Barbara sent him this crazy video on his phone.
*Note: we have a thing about The Blair Witch Project. It’s been a tradition that my brother does spoofs on this for milestone birthdays. Noted & Warning: we are not a normal family.
10. Superman travel mug and a Gonzaga sticker {from me} found in his new ride.
(The matching Superman shirt was not planned…. he seriously just happened to be wearing it that day! I got him that cup for obvious reasons. He IS Superman in my eyes).
11. A note written on his bathroom mirror.
12. Subway gift card attached to his Sonicare.
”I feel like a sandwich. Hey, I think I’ll DRIVE there to get one!”
13. Car essentials from his Dad
(with a poem attached to his keys sending him on a scavenger hunt to find it).
14. Dried Mangoes (another fav).
“You Mango us so proud!”
15. Ping Pong balls with a note attached from his mentor
(they always play ping pong together).
16. His grandparents gave him 16 pennies, 16 nickels, 16 dimes, and 16 quarters all taped together.
The surprises were a huge hit and it turned out to be a fantastic way to celebrate this 16 year old that we all love so much!
Happy 16 Gabe!!!
It’s All About the Hair: A Teen Birthday Party
Teens + birthdays can be difficult. They are too old for the usual party fare, yet they still want to do something to celebrate. As I wracked my brain to think of something for my daughter’s 14th this year, I asked myself, “what do they love to do when they get together?” HAIR! I called a few beauty salons until I found the right stylists at the right price, and the party was a done deal.
Here is what we did:
1. Hire 2 stylists to come to the party to do hair, and teach girls how to do the various styles {or ask a couple of friends who are really good at hair to come}. They bring supplies.
2. Have them bring pictures of various hair styles, and the girls choose which one they’d like.
3. Set up a couple of bar stools and a table with outlets near by.
5. The other girls snack on fun food and chat while two at a time get their hair done.
6. Go outside and take some fun pictures! I took group shots, and then one of each girl with the birthday princess.
The only issue I had was getting hairspray off the floor afterwards. Otherwise, the party was a teen girl hit…and, best of all, EASY!
Creating Unique Traditions: Our Torchlight New Year’s Ski
“Click, Click, Click.” Ski bindings lock in boots as people without poles load the last chair of the night and year at Schweitzer Mountain Resort in Sandpoint, Idaho.
This year two 10 year olds accompany the expedition, nervous but anticipating the experience they’ve waited so long to have.
“The kids have to be old enough to carry the flares, and good enough skiers to not require help,” Boppa had said when he started the tradition on the eve of the Millennium in 2000.
Thus, age 10 became the minimum age, and it now signifies a certain rite of passage.
Crisp air paints cheeks rosy as the crew recounts the tradition riding up the chair in the stillness of the night – who came what year, who couldn’t handle the steep climb, the current newcomers. The ski patrol awaits our arrival.
“We’ve been expecting you,” they say, and warn us of the cat groomers as they do every year. Binding click again, but this time in reverse.
The group begins the trek up the ridge, carrying their skis on their shoulders. The noisy chatter quickly dissipates as the angle of the hill steepens, and breathing becomes deep and steady. Breathless “You can do its,” and “Good Jobs” interrupt the pounding of the heart in each chest. Kick, step, kick, step, we make our way, following the divets in the mountain of the person who went before us. The 10 year olds inevitably beat most up the mountain. Young legs pay off.
At the top there are fireworks, high fives, and hot chocolate waiting.
I love the bonding that happens between parent-child, cousin-cousin, friend-friend. The experience ties heart strings to one another.
We light the flares…
and head down, following each other in an “S” fashion.
What is so appealing about this experience?
It has 4 elements that can create a special, unique tradition:
1. The element of challenge – something must be overcome.
2. The element of fellowship – people are embarking on an experience together.
3. The element of fun – those involved enjoy what they are doing, even if parts are difficult.
4. The element of originality – not everyone does this. In fact, it makes us unique that we do.
Ours may not sound like a “fun” experience to many of you, but to us, it’s one of the greatest highlights of our year. When we yell “HAPPY NEW YEAR” and wave our flares as we fly down the mountain all aglow, we feel ALIVE and CONNECTED. To me, there is no greater way to ring in a new beginning.
How about you? What unique traditions have you heard of or started? What ideas do you have for your family or friends? I’d love to know!
And P.S… our tradition has an open invitation. So if you ever get the hankerin’ to climb a ski ridge in Idaho on Dec.31st, we would love to have you!
Turning 13: A Meaningful Way to Celebrate a Boy’s Climb into the Teen Years
13 is a milestone birthday – a huge deal for all involved. Both child and parents will come face to face with new realities. The climb up the mountain of the teen years requires new equipment, endurance, a route map, and a team. There are obstacles ahead, but there are also breathtaking vistas along the way. In fact, they will probably happen simultaneously.
The birthday marks the beginning. It’s base camp. Base camp is where climbers prepare for their journey. Here supplies are stocked, packs are prepared, and the warm security of safety is found. As my sister and I talked about what to do for my nephew Caleb’s 13th, we wanted to create something memorable. Something to fill his pack, and an experience he could look back on when the climb gets tough; Something that helps him to remember that base camp awaits him, no matter where he goes, no matter what his journey.
We had read in a book an idea about a son going on a “path” where he meets men of wisdom along that way who give him advice. We decided to use that concept, but change it so that family would be the ones on the path, and with the goal of telling him something that sets him apart as unique and special. It would also be an opportunity for the adults in his life to share some of their wisdom..
On his birthday, my sister explained that he would walk from our lake cabin, down to the creek where we always go. He was told that people would meet him along that way, and that they would each walk him to the next person. After everyone was in their place, his dad gave him a bag, and sent him to walk his road.
Here is what he found:
His brother, explaining why popcorn was representative of him.
His Boppa giving him advice and wisdom about money.
His uncle, and cousin, telling him they think he is 5 star!
His great aunt telling him how special he is in this world.
His cousin telling him what a great example he is in his life
His Gigi explaining the importance & legacy of family.
His auntie reminding him to stand on a firm foundation through the shifting teen years.
His mom, praying over him, and speaking words of life…
As he walked the last path to the river, we all awaited him at the bridge.
We prayed over him and asked God to walk with him closely, and we thanked Him for giving us the gift of C.A.L.E.B.
Caleb climbed Mt.Adams for his 13th with his dad. We know this will be the first of many climbs for him, both figurative and literal. But no matter where he ventures, this base camp crew will be cheering, preparing his pack, and helping map his route.
Always.
15 Romantic Getaway Spots in the West
I love weddings.
We went to one last night, in fact. Every time the couple starts saying their vows, my husband and I clutch our hands together tightly, as if renewing our vows to each other in that little squeeze. It’s a reminder that love is meant to endure. That those words that were said now long ago, meant something profound, and still do. Love takes effort. Love takes time. And it takes a whole lotta planning these days to carve out space for just the two of us; but, it’s well worth every ounce of organizing 15 carpools to make it happen! Why? Because we need to enjoy the journey with our spouse. We just do. It’s part of what makes marriage {and life} FUN!!! We spend so much of our time in the daily routine, taking care of our “roles.” Busting out of that every once in a while to bring back that lovin’ feelin’ is a good thing! And not only a good thing, but a necessary part of keeping our marriage where it should be on our list of priorities.
While planning a weekend getaway with my hubs, I put a little shout out on Facebook to see where my friends’ favorite romantic stops are in the West. Here are some of the results. I’ve commented on the ones with which we’ve had first hand experience. I hope these hot spots motivate you to start planning!
Coeur d’Alene Resort, Coeur d’Alene, ID:
This one is near and dear to my heart because it is in my own backyard! I truly get to live in one of the most beautiful places on earth, and we often choose to stay in our own hometown for our getaways because it is so special here.
“With idyllic landscape, year-round activities, and its spectacular setting at the shore of one of America’s most beautiful lakes, it is no wonder that Coeur d’Alene has been christened the “Playground of the Northwest”. At The Coeur d’Alene Resort we have mastered the art of relaxation. With luxurious accommodations, rejuvenating spa treatments, sumptuous cuisine, and breathtaking holiday displays, this four-star resort continues to be the destination of choice for discerning travelers worldwide.” — taken from the website
The Clark House, Hayden, ID
This is even closer to our backyard. We LOVE LOVE LOVE The Clark House. You feel like you’ve stepped back in time when you walk through the doors. My husband was a history major in college and he could spend hours reading all of the newspapers and books in their lobby that describe it’s rich past. I think my favorite part of this place is the intimate dining setting. They give you a table by the fire, or a room all to yourselves. Very romantic and private!
“Treat yourself to the luxury of a bygone time. Overlooking the shores of Hayden Lake, Idaho, the magnificent Clark Mansion majestically rests on a wooded 12 acre estate, a reminder of a glorious past complete with princes, presidents, power, wealth and mystery. The Clark House is conveniently located 7 miles north of Coeur d’Alene and 45 minutes from the Spokane Airport. World class ski facilities are located at Schweitzer ski resort, 1 hour north of The Clark House and at Silver Mountain 45 minutes east of Coeur d’Alene on Interstate 90. Hayden Lake offers great swimming, boating and a variety of water sports.” –taken from the website
Campbell’s Resort, Lake Chelan, Wa
My cousin married into the Campbell family and was married on these very shores. It is a beautiful spot right on the lake, and is next to the downtown, which makes walking to get some good coffee in the morning a piece of cake.
“We are a fun, family Lake Chelan resort, playful, upscale, delicious. Right on the warm sandy beaches of the most beautiful lake in the world, Lake Chelan.Over the top hospitality, crisp service and a one of a kind guest experience make us the best Lake Chelan resort and one of the best Washington state resorts and Washington state conference centers around.” – taken from the website
The Davenport Hotel, Spokane, Wa
The Davenport was one of those places that was finally restored after many years of neglect and it will not disappoint. The architecture is incredible, and once again, the history fascinating. They are also known for their incredible beds. I’m not kidding – you could sleep a whole weekend through on those mattresses!
“With a rich history beginning in 1914, he Davenport Hotel stands today as a perfect blend of old and new, respecting the best of what was and embracing the best of what is. The old lobby fireplace burns again year-round as a symbol of hospitality. A new digital network invisibly ties every room of the hotel to the Internet. Spokane’s finest restaurant, spa, candy shop, and book store all reside under the same roof as Spokane’s finest hotel. The Davenport Hotel is again “one of America’s exceptional hotels.” – taken from the website
The Sleeping Lady, Leavenworth, Wa
“Sleeping Lady and the land it occupies enjoy a rich and storied past. From the area’s Native American roots, to the 1930s when it was home to Camp Icicle and the Civilian Conservation Corps, to its role today as a leading Northwest destination – Sleeping Lady embodies the natural beauty and history of Leavenworth and the Wenatchee Valley.” – taken from the website
Mountain Home Lodge, Leavenworth, Wa
Trusting the reviews on TripAdvisor, my husband and I celebrated our 15 year anniversary here. We just happened to hit the most glorious fall weekend imaginable. Golden yellow, orange, and red leaves reflected the brilliant sunshine, shadowed by towering mountains. Stunning is an understatement. Octoberfest was going on, and we loved the Bavarian dancers, though we preferred the quiet beauty of the lodge most of the weekend. It’s off the beaten path. In fact, their daughter has to take a snowmobile down their road in the winter to get to school because it is impassable by car. Now that’s fun.
“Set in the middle of the snow capped mountains of Leavenworth’s dramatic landscape, this warm and inviting lodge provides romance, adventure, and scenery that rivals Switzerland.” — taken from a review from a guest
The Willows Lodge, Woodinville, Wa
Our family stayed here when a family member got married down the road. I especially loved the Lodge’s garden. My sister worked at their restaurant right after college called “The Herb Farm.” We got to eat there and had the dining experience of a lifetime. It was a 3-4 hour meal with the freshest, most creative food. It was more than dinner, it was an experience. Reservations are a must, as they book months in advance. I also like that it borders a biking trail that goes for miles with beautiful scenery.
“Approaching Willows Lodge, you feel it. A sense of calm. An aura of comfort and welcome. Here, in the gorgeous Woodinville Wine Country, colors seem richer, the air is fresher, and everything just tastes better. Soak in the warm outdoor Jacuzzi and indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment. Savor an incredible glass of local wine by the cozy lobby fireplace. Explore our serene gardens, abundant with native plantings, herbs and unique water features. And the incredible food. Flavors so sublime you let the taste linger just a moment longer. It’s the kind of place you’ve been dreaming about.” - taken from the website
Marcus Whitman Hotel, Walla Walla, Wa.
I haven’t stayed here, but Walla Walla is quickly becoming Washington’s Napa Valley. The wine tasting here is worth the trip!
“Experience the remarkable combination of history and luxury in beautiful downtown Walla Walla. From innovative food and wine pairings to state-of-the-art meeting facilities, this grand hotel offers the perfect place to enjoy a romantic wine country getaway, establish a base for exploring the Walla Walla Valley.” -taken from the website
Cliff Houses at Cave B Winery, George, Wa.
“Cave B Inn & Spa offers breathtaking views of estate vineyards, the Columbia River and the state’s most dramatic gorge location. Cave B Inn offers 55 guestrooms, including 15 stand-alone Cliffehouses, 12 Cavern Rooms, three Inn Suites, and 25 Yurts, as well as Tendrils Restaurant, The Spa at Cave B Inn, award-winning Cave B Estate Winery, and a dramatic cliffside outdoor swimming pool.” – taken from the website
San Ysidro Ranch, Santa Barbara
“Guest are drawn to the Santa Barbara hideaway for its blend of natural beauty, romantic heritage, and classic luxury.” — taken from TripAdvisor
Carmel Valley Ranch, Carmel by the Sea, CA
“WITH its architectural mishmash of storybook English cottages and Swiss Alpine chalets, the small town of Carmel-by-the-Sea in Northern California resembles a Disneyland version of Europe. You half expect a bereted Parisian to saunter out of one of the ridiculously cute, Euro-themed bistros. But walk a few blocks to Carmel’s steep, sandy beach and the view is pure California: a rugged Pacific coastline spangled with rocky outcroppings, ghostly cypress trees and the electric green slopes of the famed Pebble Beach golf course. The one-square-mile village has no street lights, parking meters or even numbered addresses, but you wouldn’t call it low-key. Once a bohemian outpost for folks like Jack London, Carmel today is prime real estate, and the surrounding valley is abuzz with top-notch restaurants, boutique wineries and precious shops.” –The New York Times
The Stephanie Inn, Cannon Beach, OR
My husband is from Oregon, so we’ve been to the Oregon Coast many times. This is one of our favorite places to stay. Cannon Beach is a blast — the beach, the rocks, the shops, the food — there is everything to love…. unless you hit a really rainy weekend, but even then, at least you’re away without kids!
“The Stephanie Inn in Cannon Beach, Oregon, is Oregon’s premier oceanfront destination. With wonderful views of majestic Haystack Rock, the vast Pacific Ocean and the awesome Oregon Coastal Range, the oceanfront Stephanie Inn combines the charm and casual elegance of a New England country inn with the sophistication of a boutique resort hotel.” — taken from the website
WestInn Villas, Scotsdale, Az
Whether relaxing at the spa, shopping downtown or golfing on one of more than 174 courses, you’ll easily find inspiration and rejuvenation in the Valley of the Sun with its unique combination of a storied past and a contemporary present.
Wetherly Inn & Spa, Salt Spring Island, BC
This photo of Wetherly Inn & Spa is courtesy of TripAdvisor
The Post Hotel, Lake Louise, Alberta
I haven’t stayed here, but we’ve been to Lake Louise several times and I think it is every bit as beautiful as Switzerland. I can’t get over the beauty. It is one of those places fairy tales are made of….
“Perched at 1500 metres amidst the natural wonders of Banff National Park you will find our Lake Louise lodge. Canada’s largest ski area is just minutes away and the abundance of snow is just one reason a growing number of European skiers visit the area each winter. An award winning wine list, and fresh market cuisine are featured in the renowned dining room.” — taken from the website
Peanut Butter Rice Krispies Bars – Cook with Kids
Few ingredients + easy instructions = kids cookin’ up some yummies in the kitchen. My son and I made these birthday treats for his class. Word has it the kids gave these a five star rating!
Ingredients
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1 1/2 cups peanut butter
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 4 cups rice krispies
- 3 cups chocolate chips
Instructions
- Grease a 9x13 pan, or line it with a silicone liner or parchment paper. Boil the corn syrup and sugars together in a saucepan over medium heat and stir to combine. Remove from heat.
- Stir in the peanut butter and mix thoroughly. Working quickly, stir in the vanilla and rice krispies. Spread into the pan.
- Using wet fingers, press the mixture firmly all around the pan. This will consolidate the treats a bit (which is what you want).
- When cooled, remove from the pans and cut into squares.
- Heat the chocolate chips in the microwave (begin with 2 minutes, stop and stir, and then every 30 seconds after that until melted, stirring in between).
- Using a spoon or a wide knife, spread chocolate over the top of each square. You can also do this step when the cookies are in the pan, but I like to do it afterwards so that the chocolate doesn't break.
- Cool until the chocolate hardens.
- Serves 16
Signature Tiramisu
If you are looking for a wozzzzzzza — knock someone’s socks off — heaven-on-a-plate dessert, you’ve come to the right place. This tiramisu will be worth the work. Trust me. It’s not hard, it just requires a few steps. You can do it! Even the most discerning Italians will be impressed. I first started making this dessert when a fabulous chef in our area shared his recipe with me in a cooking class. My husband goes to his restaurant on my birthday every year to pick up this deliciousness for our family dinner (I know, so sweet). I’ve adapted his recipe to my own tastes, adding some elements, but the credit definitely goes to Angelo Brunson of Angelo’s Ristorante for the bulk of this recipe and technique.
With tiramisu you want to get all of your ingredients prepped, so when assembly time comes, it is all there and ready to go.
Step #1: Get the Lady Finger Cookies out of their bags and place in a bowl. Remember, only the hard Lady Fingers will do. You can find these at most markets, especially those like Trader Joes, Whole Foods, etc. The soft ones will NOT work. You’ll end up with a mushy mess.
Step #2: Make the Zabaglione mixture. You will separate the 15 egg yolks from the whites, add the 1 1/4 c.sugar, 1/4 tsp. salt, and 3/4 c. Marsala, and wisk over a double boiler (which is simply a bowl over a boiling pot of water. DO NOT STOP MIXING, or you’ll end up with scrambled eggs. The mixture will get thick and have a banana yellow sheen to it. That is when you know it is ready. Put plastic wrap over the top and place in the fridge to cool. TIP ON SEPARATING EGG YOLKS: Place all of your eggs in a bowl of warm water. Let sit for a few minutes. Room temperature eggs will separate easily, whereas cold eggs will not.
Step #3: Make the coffee mixture that the Lady Fingers will be dipped into when it is time to assemble. Simply mix 2 cups coffee, 1 1/2 tbsp. instant espresso powder, 1/4 c. Brandy or Rum, and 1/4 c. sugar. I like to put this in a square or rectangular dish for easy dipping.
Step #3: Whip the Cream. Place 6 cups cold cream into a standing mixer. Start mixing with the wire whisk attachment on slow. If you beat the cream too quickly it will deflate easily. After a couple of minutes, turn it to medium, then to high. Mix until soft peaks form. Add 4 tbsp. vanilla.
Step #5: Add the mascarpone (my favorite part). Slowly add the 2 lb. mascarpone cheese to the whipped mixture. Mix well, but don’t over mix or it will deflate.
Step #6: When the zabaglione mixture is cooled, take out of the refrigerator, and add 3/4 c. at a time to the whipped cream. FOLD into the cream, don’t stir. This is the part you want to really be careful with, as the cream can deflate with this step also.
Step #7: Now you are ready to assemble. Put the cookies, the zabaglione mixture, and the coffee mix side by side. Using a 9×13 pan, dip the Lady Fingers quickly into the coffee mixture and line up in a pan. The trick here is to place the cookie in for a 1/2 second, then flip and do the same on the other side. DO NOT SUBMERGE, or they will be too soggy.
Step #8: Dollop two big piles of the zabaglione cream mixture onto the top of the Lady Fingers and spread evenly with a knife.
Step #9: On top of the zabaglione mixture, sprinkle a dusting a cocoa powder, and chopped chocolate. An easy way to chop chocolate is to put chocolate chips in the food processor and pulse several times.
Step #10: Repeat the layering process. Dip and line up the Lady Fingers (laying them the opposite way in the pan this time), top with the cream, then sprinkle with cocoa and chocolate. You’re done!!! Cover it with plastic wrap and let sit in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours, though 18-24 is ideal.
ENJOY!
Ingredients Instructions
http://thehomemaderenegade.com/2012/03/signature-tiramisu.html
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Favorite Things Birthday Party
My very creative friend, Angie, is crazy about two things: Oprah & celebrating. She combined them for her birthday party this year in an idea that I loved: a favorite things party! We all met at a local restaurant and had instructions to bring two identical “favorite things” – one for Angie, and one for someone at the party. When we arrived, a point person placed a number on the gift NOT for the bday girl. Each person presented Ang with her gift, explaining why it is a “favorite.” At the end of the party, we drew numbers and went home with one of the favs. I got the MAC Lipglass and love it! Here are some pictures of the party & ideas for gifts:
Have fun with this one…. we did!!!!
Angie shared two of her favorite things with us too: tulips & chocolate covered sea salt caramels….. so sweet!
The Hidden Cupcake
We are big on birthdays around here, and The Hidden Cupcake is one of our favorite traditions! Here is how it works…
In the morning, we put the cupcake next to the birthday person’s plate. Sometime during the day, the cupcake disappears and is hidden somewhere in the house. At present time, the birthday guy or gal gets to hunt around for the cupcake, which is now housing inside of it a fun gift.
It’s the Little Things…..
A little plaque that my grandma gave me reads “Do small things with GREAT LOVE.” I’ve always said that it is the little things that make up big things. Profound huh? (LOL). But it’s true. It’s the note left on the bathroom mirror, the text of encouragement reflecting sincere friendship, the coffee brought unexpectedly, the hug given at the right moment, the little gift given because someone was thinking of you, the card left in the suitcase.
This sign, and the one above, greeted us on return from our Costa Rica trip. Let me tell you how loved we felt being welcomed by these little rays of sunshine!
These are little gifts my sister put together for each one of my kids on Easter. Kendra is the best at the “little somethin’ somethin”” concept. The other day she gave me a leopard coffee cozy over a paper cup and wrote a message to me on the cup with a Sharpe. CUTEST EVER!! She is always so creative and I feel so loved because of her thoughtfulness.
This basket of joy showed up on my doorstep on May Day! It was left by an anonymous giver (though I know who it is 
), but how creative, fun, and DARLING is this idea!!!? It completely brightened my day!!
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