Special does not even begin to express how wonderful our evening was last night.

Earlier this month we took our friend, Cassy, who is currently living downstairs in our home, along with her friend, Christy, to a Packer game.  They were so grateful for the gift of a fun night out that they wanted to return the favor. Of course, John and I didn’t expect anything in return, as it was a pleasure to treat them to the game.

When you know two amazingly creative artists, I should have known beautiful moments will come from that. Unexpected moments. Moments that will make your heart ooze with happiness, and pride, for all the thought that went into making a special night for John and I.

Earlier in the week we received a special invitation that said:  “We are honoring you to a date night at the Starving Artist Bistro.  You will dine on deliciousness prepared by acclaimed Chef Christy & Sous Chef Cassy at the back porch bistro by candlelight, lanterns, and chiminea.  Maitre d’Kylie will greet you upon your arrival and the lovely Joie will be your gracious hostess for the evening.”

Around 4:oo pm a flurry of activity began to happen outside on our deck and in our kitchen.  The creative duo began working their magic. As Chef Christy sliced, diced, simmered, and cooked up a storm in my kitchen, her sidekick, complete with bright pink bow in her hair, created magic on our deck turning a corner of it into a private table set just for two.

John and I enjoyed a cocktail on the deck as dinner was being prepared. The evening was so enchanting that I wanted to renew my wedding vows right then and there with John. It was that special.

Around 6:00 pm we were seated at our corner table (a.k.a. card table turned elegant!). As Sous Chef Cassy poured us each a glass of bubbly, Chef Christy explained our menu for the evening.  John and I enjoy going to the Paddock Club nearby now and then where they serve small plate specials on Tuesday evenings. The menu was designed around this very idea and made with many fresh ingredients.  To tease your taste buds I’ve created an album on Facebook of all the delicious dishes we were served, along with other fun pictures.  But here is a sneak peek inside the secret notes of Chef Christy:

As we dined alfresco on our back deck, Joie and Kylie at our feet, I sat in awe that here John and I were, being treated to a very special evening. A night I’d have never imagined right here in our own home. Accepting Cassy into our lives this past spring was a big decision for us. We have had our ups and downs (more ups than downs) as we all learn to move within the space of our home with respect and thoughtfulness for each other.

John and I have grown in our own unique separate ways from the experience, as well as our relationship together has deepened  in a way I never saw coming. As we continue to mentor our young friend, we find our hearts growing bigger– we want the very best for Cassy. We love her dearly. It feels amazingly good to help someone take the next step toward living a life of authenticity and passion.

In return, Cassy finds ways in which she feels she can repay us, and last night was the treat of all treats. Though, as I’ve told her many times, she never needs to give us any thing or spend money on us.  Our reward will be when her wings are strong enough to fly off into the life she truly deserves. It will be a bittersweet day. But the moments of love, laughter and friendship we have created, and continue to create, will live on in all our hearts forever. Now that is magical.

To experience the magic of Christy and Cassy I invite you to check out their websites!  Fast Eddie’s Studio for Christy and Cassy Tully – Fine Art for Cassy.