09/20/2026
A Gator road trip, a 45th birthday and a table full of people I’m so thankful to know.
For more than 20 years, this group of college friends have made an annual road trip to a Gator game. This year took us to Auburn and happened to fall on Alden’s 45th birthday, so of course I couldn’t let Friday night pass without setting a table and making dinner for everyone.
We started with Dad’s jalapeño pimiento cheese and guacamole, then I made a crusted beef tenderloin, twice-baked potatoes, brown sugar soy prosciutto-wrapped asparagus and baguettes with homemade dipping oil. Mama finished us off with the most delicious cheesecake with homemade ganache and caramel.
Because I love a detail, each couple had a stack of custom road-trip coasters, everyone had a Gator name card and the girls each got buttons from The Button Bar. There’s something pretty special about a tradition that has lasted more than two decades. The stories, the laughter, the same friendships and plenty of new memories added along the way. I’m just really thankful I get to be part of it now. Some traditions you start. Some you’re lucky enough to be welcomed into. Go Gators always 💙🧡