I don't have a track record of 'rocking' birthdays. And I am not complaining. I haven't been one to make a big deal of them. Quiet and quick are fine, a nice dinner? Plenty for me. I don't need a lot of fanfare. But this year, I decided to take it up a notch, call some friends and see if I can string together a FULL day of good moments, laughter, a walk around the neighborhood, cocktails with a friend and then dinner with my family.

I have well-laid plans to walk with my favorite neighbor, snag coffee with a long-time friend, lunch with another---who works too much and I see too little---and hit happy hour with just the right gal for good gossip and a pile of laughter. I might have to squeeze in a visit to a garden store, and buy some rhubarb and white freesia---and some sage. I LOVE sage.

This birthday is ALREADY the best. Because for my birthday? James built me huge garden boxes---an official jump start to my urban farm. And I would say garden, but we plan to get chickens... and I DID just use a pitch fork to battle and remove some invasive bamboo. Our city plot is en route from 'forest' to farm and I couldn't be happier. Last weekend we spent time clearing rubbish and had a huge fir tree removed. Our whole yard it bright and cheerful and begging to be bountiful.

I have seed starts in my window. My son Anthony is just as into gardening as I am (he is the one with all the 'tabs' sticking out of the SUNSET gardening Bible). Do you think it is our Dutch roots? My dad grew up on a dairy farm, my grandmother always had gorgeous gardens full of vegetables and flowers. It is such a happy occasion, this birthday, spending time with my family in the yard---our little plot of land and big garden boxes adorning our median.

And I would leave it at that. BUT I promised a giveaway, compliments of McCormicks. Consider it inspiration to try a few new flavors, add some new faves to your kitchen repertoire... and a chance for me to make YOUR day a great one too! Inside the box: S&P, Allspice, Mustard Seeds, Cilantro, Garlic Powder, Coconut Milk, Thai chili sauce, pasta and Almond Butter. Just comment below by midnight PST April 7. I will randomly choose and announce the winner by Tue April 12.

p.s. the winner has been contacted, will let you know once confirmed...