Well, it was time for something different, and so instead of Michelle coming down to see everyone -- everyone took a short trip north to Temple to celebrate her 36th Birthday! She was super-happy to see us all. Having lived in Temple most of their lives, my girls were happy to take a nostalgic trip back home. Except for passing through a few times, I hadn't been back to Temple for about 10 years! Since it was Kevin's actual birthday, it also turned into a celebration for Kevin as well as Michelle!
Cynthia and I stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn across the street from Scott & White. Our rooms were close enough that Kevin kept running back and forth between the rooms.
Well, it was a little before dinner and Cynthia and James wanted to get a drink before eating! We initially went to Casa 'Ole (previously known as Monterrey Mexico), but they did not have their alcohol license yet, so we ended up next door at the Taqueria. Needless to say, the multiple drinks ordered were delicious. Having had two drinks apiece, we were feeling great when we arrived at Dynasty Chinese Restaurant.
It didn't take us long to decide on a restaurant for our gathering. While living in Temple, one of our favorite places for food was Dynasty Chinese Restaurant off of Airport Road. It was a great place to meet for dinner.
Below, Michelle and Kevin get a surprise when a loud GONG sounded the arrival of some complementary desserts and a "Happy Birthday" wish from the staff! Because of the large group, we were given a special party room separate from the main dining hall. It actually contained some Birthday party signs and balloons from a previous event. Of course, they came in handy when taking pictures of the birthday couple.
Note the large GONG in the first picture. You will hear it in the video below!
And if that wasn't enough food during the trip, we all met the next morning for breakfast at the Bird Creek Brewing Cafe in downtown Temple! I had the eggs benedict while Sylvia had the Chili Cheese burger! Everyone got their fill -- even Sienna!
Below, Michelle and Kevin each get a chance to blow out the candles since there were two pastries: A coconut Italian cream cake and a coconut cream pie!
Of course, presents followed!
And, as if that wasn't enough of a celebration, we also met in early February at Viola's Ventanas Restaurant for a brief party for Kevin & Jordan so the 'family' could be there. Below is the DUCK CAKE Cynthia had made at Oh, Yeah, Cake!
This last picture, to the left, is a group picture taken at Dynasty Chinese Restaurant in Temple. It was great to be together again with all my daughters, their significant others and the grandkids!
