Me.isms: "......I just love Damien"

Sunday we hosted a surprise baby shower for my co-worker, Damien and his wife Jean. My kids know that if I start a story about work that involves Damien, (I guess) I always say "Damien, you know I love Damien" and they reply yes, we do know. He is the litigation work horse of the firm- the quiet, witty, reliable one who just happens to share the office across the hall from mine. He usually arrives 5 minutes early and I arrive 5 minutes (OK, 8) late so it works out perfectly. Raised by a single mom, he worked at the zoo for 7 years and put himself through college before getting a full ride to Creighton Law. Yes, I love Damien. He has had a week at the cabin with his friends for the last several years and took my suggestions of preparing for the baby by:
1. Buying a Honda Pilot and
2. Signing up for Cathedral daycare (get a daycare with a school down the hall-you'll thank me later!).

They thought we were having a small office get together but everyone brought gifts for baby Mina Rose.

Menu

Beer:

Goose Island "Sophie"
Gouden Carolus "Classic"
St. Bernadus "Wit"

Smoked Salmon Goat Cheese Crostini

Cauliflower "Caviar" with Prosciutto

Mixed Greens with Honey Orange Dressing

Ultimate Beef Wellington

Rosemary Fingerling Potatoes

Citrus Shortcake with Berries

I kept the theme decorating to a minimum with white on white polka dot napkins and lime green over-cloths. In a Lansing antique store I found a little bag of vintage buttons ---and went with a "buttons and bows" idea.

The beers were all great and the Beef Wellington appreciated by all. Damien was very surprised and delighted at the gesture of our mini-shower. We all needed a fun evening this week especially, and we had it. Anto and Aron brought the kids Charlie and Sammy and they loved the pirate ship and "bag of guys" --those action figures that never go out of style!