Ken had his birthday this weekend. We started the day off with blueberry muffins (Dieter and I tried the recipe from this book and they were delicious). (The boys also made him many paper gifts, as above). Next, we headed off on a family outing--we took Rainer for his first haircut, then the boys and I visited my parents while Ken took a long and leisurely trip to Green Thumb to buy some bare root fruit trees (he chose a pluot and an aprium). After that, he picked us up and we all went to lunch.
In the evening (after tree planting), there was cheeseball (homemade, of course), dinner and a pie.
Some things about Ken on his birthday::: he is an amazing parent. Not only is he loving and fun with the boys, but he manages their bad moods and tantrums much much better than I.
:: he's kind and generous to everyone. He sees people's strengths.
:: he is passionate about gardening and loves to research trees and plants for our yard. He has an especial love for the exotics (which is how we came to have our Cara Cara Pink oranges and our fejoas).
Happy birthday Ken!
And in case you are hankering for cheeseball of your own, here is the recipe. So yummy--I highly recommend.
Cheese Ball
8 oz. block cream cheese
8 oz. tub sharp cheddar spread
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
two shakes of Worcestershire sauce
1 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
Blend the two cheeses (I start out by forking them through and then switch to a wooden spoon) with the garlic and the Worcestershire. Form into a ball (it helps to have slightly damp hands for this). Chill 1 hour. Roll in pecans. Ready to serve! This is great with any crackers and with cut up veggies on the side, especially celery. Enjoy!
7 comments:
Happy Birthday Ken. It's always a treat to read about good daddies. Sounds like you had a lovely day.
Happy birthday Ken!!and thank you for the cheese ball recipe! :-)
Happy Birthday to Ken! That cheese ball looks fantastic - thanks for sharing!
Oh, what a sweet celebration. Looks like the perfect way to honor him.
Your comment about Ken's kindness and generosity, and his ability to see peoples strengths are so true. I played water-polo for him over 30 years ago, those are the characteristics that that I remember most about him. Happy Birthday Ken!!!
I'm forwarding a message from Tom Mataista:
Hello Ken, this is Tom Matista. Happy Birthday! I love you, man! I often think about you and the positive impact that you have had on my life. If you ever get to Sacramento, I would love to catch up. I still have a picture of the Summer swim team of 1974! Go coach! I remember you showing some of us how to use chopsticks at some restaurant, when ever and where ever that was!
I too am sending Ken Birthday Greetings! I was a swimmer in HS-Robin Whitney- & remember Ken & Coach D. (I now live in the same town as coach & see him from time to time.)
I remember Ken's smile & his mischievousness!
I was just directed to your Blog yesterday & had so much fun reading it...I had to stop and sew something. (Sweet Dreams Pillows w/ lavender,roses, hops & chamomile)
I look forwarding to following your Blog! Happy New Year to you all-and Happy Birthday Ken!
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