My 30th Birthday

If my 30th birthday was any indication as to how the year is going to go, I’m liking it.

I had an excellent birthday that I turned into a ‘birthday weekend’ because why not? (Sunday was the official day.)

The best way to start out my birthday weekend on Saturday: a long run.

Distance: 15 miles

Time: 2:12

Average pace: 8:48 minutes/mile

It was a good run, but I wish I could have run 30 miles or 30K, but I had to settle for half. My hamstring held up fairly well. I just wish it would fully heal for good!

After my run, I relaxed at home and took my time getting ready for our next appointment. I really like taking my time stretching, getting some food, and just relaxing after my long run instead of rushing off to the next thing.

Our next appointment was at the Sheraton Hotel in downtown Anchorage. 

Craig booked a couples massage at the Ice Spa, which is on the 16th floor of the hotel. We had amazing views of the mountains and the inlet on a very clear day.

We had an 80 minute couples massage that was very relaxing! Our masseuses were very good and very professional.

We were given comfy robes to wear and the facilities were very serene and clean. We also had time to hang out in the lounge with complimentary beverages and snacks.

After our massages we had reservations at Paris Bakery and Cafe. Neither Craig or I had been to this restaurant before, but we had heard positive reviews, so we were excited to try it ourselves.

We started out with Escargots (a.k.a. snails)! Definitely not something that you would think would taste good, but I think if you put enough butter and garlic on anything, it tastes divine.

I had a seafood crepe that was delicious. I’ve never had anything like it before, but the creamy sauce and crispy crust melted in my mouth. It was a little heavy for my stomach though.

Craig had the Seafood Rendezvous—scallops, lobster, and shrimp. Very good, but I did like my entree better.

Our service was great—the waitress staff was super friendly and even offered a dessert on the house since we had to wait a while for our food. (We honestly did NOT mind waiting. I actually enjoy the longer wait because it gives us time to talk and hang out.) Craig chose the pear tart.

After dinner, we were too full and too relaxed to do anything but head straight to bed.

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Sunday morning we served the meal after our church service in honor of my birthday. (Families take turn serving food for everyone after the service.We have a small congregation.)

Since breakfast is my favorite meal of the day, we did a breakfast bar complete with different types of cereal, yogurt with all the fixings, fresh fruit, and homemade pumpkin bread.

Sunday afternoon I went to Bikram yoga and enjoyed a 90-minute sweat session.

Every Sunday night, we go over to our friend’s place to watch The Walking Dead—well, everyone else watches while I work on blog posts. It was our turn to bring the dessert, so I made coconut macaroons.

I’ve made these before, and they are always a hit. I always use the recipe on the back of the Baker’s coconut. Super easy!

And that recaps my birthday weekend. I have no idea what this year holds for me, but I am excited to find out!