Birthday cakes and Tomato and feta bruschetta

Sunday, Allie and Lauren had a dual birthday party at the carousel in Meridian. The Dentzel Carousel is a Meridian landmark and a popular place for birthday parties. It was built in 1896 and is beautifully handpainted. I made the girls' birthday cakes again this year. Allie wanted a peace sign cake and Lauren wanted Hannah Montana. Here are some shots from the party:







Tomato and Feta Bruschetta

You know that part in "Julie and Julia" where Julie makes the bruschetta with the fried bread and juicy, olive oily tomatoes? Well, I think about that scene all the time...it looks like such an amazing dinner. All that tomato juice and olive oil dripping down their chins....I had to make it! Here is my interpretation

1 baguette sliced diagonally
2 Tbsp. olive oil, divided
1 Tbsp. butter
3 Tbsp. minced garlic, divided
4-5 Roma tomatoes, diced
2 tsp. balsamic vinegar
2 Tbsp. chopped basil
Sea salt to taste
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter in 1 Tbsp. olive oil. Add 1 Tbsp garlic. Fry bread slices until browned on both sides. In a medium bowl, mix tomatoes, remaining olive oil and garlic, vinegar, basil, feta, and salt. Serve the tomato mixture on top of bread slices.

This turned out fabulous, and will probably be a weekly event at our house from now on. I'm sure I will come up with some fun variations, but this was awesome! Try it and enjoy.