So far, 2006 has been quite a year for landmark birthdays. Catherine and Matt H. both turned 30 in February; Papapol turned 90; Melanie turned 21; and in a couple of weeks, Ian turns 60.

Well, this weekend, there was another 30th, and this time it was Emily's. We hosted a surprise party for her at our apartment. We were a little apprehensive because it was the first party we've had of this size since our move to DC. We used to have big parties at our old place in Dallas. But we had more space there, not to mention a balcony. We've always felt our apartment here in the District wouldn't really be conducive to party-throwing, unless it was the kind of party that people spent naked and in close proximity to one-another. But I don't think they call those 'parties.'

Anyway, we were pleasantly surprised to find that, with some creative re-arrangement of furniture, and an ample supply of a social lubricant known as 'tequila,' our place can comfortably accommodate 15-20 people.

We served up some Tex-Mex fare: chicken and beef tacos, black beans, rice, guacomole. And did I mention there was tequila? Zack was nice enough to bring some 1800 Reposado for birthday shots. I can testify to the fact that it was as smooth going down the first time as it was the fifth. I also made some of my secret-recipe margaritas, which tend to cause spontaneous, irrepressible grinning for those who imbibe them, as is evidenced by these photos.

Thanks to everybody who came and thanks to Mat and Zach for helping with the preparations. And a big Happy Birthday to Em, whose actual birthday, I believe, is still a couple of days away.

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