I don't know about you, but I'm feelin.....23??

To say I enjoy celebrating my birthday is a bit of understatement. I don’t just celebrate the DAY of my birth…it’s more of a multi-week kind of shindig! After all, there’s only one time a year that’s all about you—why not stretch it out?!

The first event took place the Saturday before my birthday. My ATL crew gathered for a fun-filled day AAC (All About Caroline). The first stop—Monday Night Brewing. This was my first trip to the brewery, and I was VERY impressed! Tasty brews—including a Belgian-style Wit, a Scotch Ale and even their traditional Eye Patch Ale brewed with red peppers (especially for my birthday, I’m guessing!)

 

 

My favorite part of the brewery—the  atmosphere! Classic movies on a giant projector, mismatched tables and chairs and a giant wall of neckties gave the place a laid-back, quirky vibe!

The much needed dinner at…where else, but El Taco…commenced shortly after we left the brewery. Something you just can’t avoid on your birthday….shots! One round of pineapple-infused tequila shots, and I was ready to hit the bars!

 

With the first round of my birthday, under my belt, I took a brief hiatus. Because I was taking Thursday & Friday off, my official work birthday took place on Wednesday the 12^th! The best co-workers ever took very good care of me! I got all my favorite things—wine, Sbux, a manicure certificate and delicious cupcakes—my first experience with Piece of Cake, and I was DEFINITELY impressed!

 

Keeping the celebrations alive, I headed to Southern Art for a birthday dinner with Taylor. On the way, I checked the mail and found a wonderful surprise—an entire book about two of my favorite things!! Thanks, Scott!

 

Although dinner was not exempt from several mishaps, (left my ID at home, Taylor left to get it and his car wouldn’t start….so I sat in the restaurant alone for 30 minutes) I did get a free glass of wine from the manager who could tell I was a bit bummed, and the meal was great! I chose the trout, and Taylor had the pork cheek. And for dessert, red velvet cake!

 

Finally, the day arrived—my actual birthday! I couldn’t think of any better way to celebrate than to head to Asheville—the infamous site of my 21^st birthday.

But first, a sweet surprise from my roomie! Princess balloons, candy and a Cosmo—she knows me too well!

We started the celebration at Wicked Weed, Shawn and David’s favorite new AVL “hotspot.” We ordered a flight so I could sample lots of delicious brews! And for lunch, the BLT with garlic aioli.

 

To keep the party going, Betsy & Robbie arrived with presents in toe! Chef Shawn prepared a delicious meal—endive salad, tomato pie and chicken cordon bleu. Go, Princess! We had a great time talking about my actual birth (well worth it, right, Betsy?!) and enjoying a serenade of country's greatest hits from my Dad!

 

Now most people would stop the celebrating after the actual day, but I was just getting started!

The next morning, Shawn and I headed to pick up a new pair of kicks! We just had to break them in, so we traveled up to Craggie Pinnacle to enjoy the AMAZING  view. Owie even joined, although he was a bit pooped after the hike!

Next on the birthday list was a visit from my college roomie and BFF Steph! I anxiously awaited her arrival, and much to my surprise…..JULIE ARRIVED TOO!

Of course, it is always a treat to have both my sweeties with me, but the surprise made it even better!

Saturday, we all embarked on quite a journey—floating the French Broad River. Although getting in the river, getting out of the river and nearly killing myself when I found a spider in my tube, was not great, the floating cooler, delicious brews and quality time with some of my favorite people, made the adventure well worth it!

 

 

Saturday night, we had a great time celebrating with cocktails at Imperial Life. I opted for the Dirty Diana, a yummy twist on a margarita!

 

 

 

Next stop—5 Walnut, where we enjoyed wine and the sounds of Lyric—an MJ cover band with a lead singer that could pass for Tracy Chapman. But really, she was spot on with “Fast Car.” Just take a listen--AH-mazing!

And our window seat gave us a great view of the eclectic Asheville street life!

And to end the night, champagne and a little karaoke from me. “Mirrors,” of course! ;)

 

Although my birthday was centered on fun, it showed me how truly blessed I am! Sweet surprises from my friends and family, days revolving around me (where no one complained) and wonderful gifts made this birthday the best one ever!

Taylor Swift may not have written a song about 23, but if my birthday is any indication of how the year will be, I’m ready for it!