A year older..

mixed fruit meringue 

chicken pie

breads

chocolate

The birthday came and went, three days ago. For the first time, the kids got together and brought food to celebrate at home, instead of the usual family dine-out.

I offered to prepare dessert - was thinking english trifle or bread pudding - but they told me to lay off the kitchen for a day. Like I needed reminding, heh.. 

Pies were the meal of the evening, super rich and meaty chicken pie and shepherd's pie. The former went in the blink of an eye; the latter made it to breakfast the following day.

Completing the menu were a bowl of mixed vegetable salad with balsamic dressing, various types of buns and rolls, slices of succulent Thai mangoes, and a jumbo-sized, super-sedap mixed fruit meringue. 

[PS: I 'returned' the favour by accidentally breaking the salad bowl; butterfinger me. Thankfully, it was neither Bohemian crystal nor someone's family heirloom. Phew!]

In all, it was a memorable evening - good food & good company. Nothing beats having the ones you love around you; thank you guys!

A couple of days earlier, Izan, who made Awwa's wedding favours recently (story here), turned up at my doorsteps with a surprise birthday gift of a heart-shaped chocolate. Much appreciated, Izan..