Nicki’s birthday is exactly one month after mine. Unlike my elegant birthday bash, she opted for a quiet event. Heather and I had planned to take her to tea at a newish place in the West Village on President’s Day, but her day ended up a little too crammed with appointments and errands, so we switched it up for tea at my place. I had so much fun putting everything together! Happy birthday Nicki!

My version of cucumber sandwiches (over whole wheat crackers)

Clockwise from top: hummus, egg salad, artichoke dip, crackers, cucumbers, carrots

Dessert, courtesy of Bosie Tea Parlor: matcha (green tea) eclair, earl grey mille feuille, scones with clotted cream and raspberry jam, macarons (pistachio, jasmine, and raspberry with chocolate filling)

I am one of those people who thinks Valentine’s Day is a Hallmark holiday, so it was a low-key celebration for us, especially since Adam was flying out to LA on the actual day. We had a most relaxing weekend, mostly filled with yummy food. I made a lovely dinner for us on Saturday night before we headed out to a friend’s birthday party, and I followed it up with a tasty brunch on Sunday. Life should be delicious!

Fennel salad with citrus (fennel, oranges and grapefruit)

Pan-seared sea bass over mushroom farro risotto

Red velvet cake dipped in white chocolate (from a cute little bakery around the corner)

Brunch: Huevos rancheros with homemade pumpkin chili