Cinco de Mayo!

So, this day holds special meaning for me. It was 2006 that a very special tradition started with BFF Laura Jane Cushman (Magdalen now). We decided to tag along to IronHorse (www.portlandironhorse.com) Mexican restaurant in Sellwood for dinner with some good friends Kelly and Cody (I was Laura's date as usual). After dinner the marrieds went home and the singles decided we hadn't had enough and it was time to get some dessert. Upon Laura's suggestion we went to Via Delizia (www.viadelizia.com) in the Pearl District. I had no idea of Via Delizia's goodness until we ordered the 3 scoops of gelato. Not only does it come in a GORGEOUS cup, but it comes with amazing cookies. Needless to say we were so full and happy!

2007-As the next year came we decided to continue the tradition (for those of you that REALLY know me, you will know that this made me VERY happy---tradition is a huge part of my life). We went to Iron Horse again and then Via Delizia...but this year had a different twist.

Laura was a little quiet at dinner, but nothing too out of the ordinary. I just talked a lot and then we left for Via Delizia. When we got there, out of nowhere Laura blurts out that she has something to tell me. This was not just SOMETHING small mind you...it was the "bomb dropping." In the next breath she tells me that she has decided that the man she has been dating (not for very long) is definitely "the one" and there's no turning back. She tells me the WHOLE story of what's been going on with their relationship, and I just sit there with my mouth wide open. I ask a ton of questions, at first dying inside at the impending CHANGE of our relastionship, but after hours of talking I begin to find peace and excitement for her.

2008-In 2008 we both had special men in our lives (Praise the LORD). Laura was engaged and Ian and I had been dating for 6 months. We were excited to share in our special event with them, however Dan was traveling for work and so Ian was left out. Still did Iron Horse and Via Delizia.

2009-Last year, Dan and Laura were married and Ian and I were 2 months away from getting married (hallelujah). The guys finally came with us. I felt like the guys didn't really "get it" at first. Ian tried to suggest other Mexican restaurants and I quickly told him that the tradition just simply could not be messed with. Now, they gladly go and don't ask questions. hehe! We made an economical decision last year to only do Iron Horse and go back to the Magdalens for dessert. We had fun watching American Idol and having some kind of chocolatey goodness (I think).

This year, we are both married and continuing the Iron Horse tradition. We decided we liked doing the dessert at home thing...so we will be doing that (someday we will return to Via). I made some almond cups that didn't turn out so they are like almost crumbles now, which will go nicely as a topping for ice cream. :)

All of that to say: CHEERS to traditions with good friends/family (pumpkin patch, Christmas, birthdays, etc). It makes my heart happy, and that is why I woke up with a smile on my face this morning! Feliz Cinco de Mayo a todos...OLE!