Mal had quite the birthday this year! After a fun night out with friends, Mal spent his actual birthday playing Polish Horseshoes, drinking beers, and barbecuing. I don’t think Mal could have imagined a better way to spend his birthday!
There were 8 teams for the Polish Horseshoes tournament. The tourney lasted all afternoon and into the evening.
There were also "costumes" for the afternoon celebration. I joined in the merriment by sporting a green cowboy hat. And check out my shirt! 
Our friends definitely got into the party theme!
The afternoon was the perfect opportunity for Mal to finally use his wicked awesome radio-cooler. He actually wore it with the beers in it for a little while! 
Tuning it.
Over the course of the afternoon, I snacked on a bunch of falafel chips with various To Die For dips.
Mal’s step-mom recently discovered these delicious locally-produced dips and spreads. In fact, they are To Die For Dips! 
The company produces a plethora of all-natural and interesting flavor dips– from Goat Cheese & Toasted Walnuts to Cajun Crab to Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Gouda. There are SO MANY I want to try. My favorite of the bunch was the Jalapeño Popper, which had a strong and spicy kick to it.
Mal’s birthday BBQ had the usual hamburgers, hot dogs, and chicken, but I was most excited about the veggie kabobs. Grilled veggies are one of my favorite summertime foods!
I filled my plate with grilled veggies, a couple of Tabasco pickles, and a small hamburger patty.
Of course, I saved room for Funfetti cupcakes! 
I ended up eating 2 Funfetti cupcake tops. (Mal helped me out with the bottoms.) As you know, the frosting is my favorite part!
What a birthday weekend! I’m so glad that Mal enjoyed himself! I definitely did, too!
