This past weekend I celebrated my 38th birthday in Dallas and I am so thankful to John for planning the most amazing birthday weekend. It was my first birthday being away from my friends and family, but he went above and beyond to make the day feel just as special.
We started my celebration with a beautiful and delicious afternoon tea and champagne service at ‘Tea At Taschen’ at the Joule Hotel. The Joule Hotel’s own Taschen library and bookstore closes off for a few hours on select days exclusively for their tea time with only one reservation time seating for an intimate group. I’ve been a longtime enthusiast of tea service mostly of the English varieties, and this afternoon tea with champagne service was the most stylish and unique tea experience I have ever had. 
The setting is absolutely stunning with books and art all around and an intimate communal table beautifully set up with colorful china, pretty tableware and towers of exquisite looking bites. Our host was very helpful in explaining each tea and food pairing and everything tasted as amazing as it looked. Guests also have the opportunity to purchase books or art at 10% during your tea service.
Bodysuit Top: Voom by Joy Han | Shoes: Zara, similar here |
After tea and champagne service, I had a shopping appointment with an associate at the Chanel boutique at Neiman Marcus Downtown and picked up my newest baby to add to my collection. I got to try it on before deciding on a style and color and before it was gift-wrapped. I couldn’t wait to wear it as it went perfectly with my birthday dress, so why wait to enjoy such a beautiful gift?
Pappardelle with braised rabbit, pancetta, Swiss chard, thyme
We ended the night with a yummy dinner at Gemma, a restaurant I visited in 2014 during a work trip where I had the most amazing braised rabbit ragu pappardelle dish ever. Long, flat ribbons of fresh pappardelle tossed with juicy, tender braised rabbit, salty pancetta, fresh Swiss chard and woodsy thyme. Who knew three years laters I’d be living here with access to this restaurant and this life-changing dish?! It really is that good. To my surprise, the dish is still on the menu three years later and it tasted just as amazing as I remember and have longed for since.
Dress: Keepsake | Shoes: similar here | Bag: Chanel
Birthday sliders grilled by hubby complete with candles placed by the kids
On my actual birthday, we hung out at home, lounged by the pool, grilled some sliders and ate cupcakes with the kids. I wouldn’t have had it any other way. As I reflect on what feels like just another day but another year older, I have a lot to be grateful for, still more to learn, and a lot more to give. As I enter the final two years in my 30s, I will continue to live the life I’ve designed for myself and my family – a life that is organized but spontaneous, full of laughter and smiles and the practice of making moments matter. I look forward to the journey ahead as I know 38 is and will be great.