Turning 30 is a milestone that calls for celebration. Our eldest recently reached this significant age, and to commemorate the occasion, she invited her friends from Toulouse to join us at Coin Perdu. She specifically requested the chocolate cake that has been a favorite in our home for years. This decadent cake, discovered in Annette Human’s Winning Recipes 3, is an easy and quick delight. It has withstood the test of time, having been passed down through generations, starting with Renie Conradie’s husband’s stepmother, Grandma Polly.
Astuces Précieuses
Here are some valuable tips for baking this chocolate cake:
- Baking the cake at 170 °C helps prevent it from cracking and rising unevenly.
- Gently tapping the bottom of the cake pan on a table surface helps remove any air bubbles.
- For a darker cake, add an extra teaspoon of cocoa to the mixture.
- Serve the cake with whipped cream, ice cream, or crème fraîche.
- The cake becomes even more delicious as it ages.
Reminiscing and Creating New Memories
During his speech, mon chéri fondly recalled the day he turned 30. Back then, he thought he was old. Now, with our first daughter reaching this milestone, he reflects on how he should feel. The beautiful thing about having children turning 30 is that it makes us feel young again. The weekend was filled with the vibrant energy of those in their 20s, embarking on their journey to 30, as well as the wisdom and confidence of those already in their 30s.
Preparations for the celebration began on Saturday. We created a rustic-shabby-chic ambiance that lasted well into Sunday morning. As the night grew quieter, the familiar calm of Coin Perdu settled in, only to be awakened a few hours later by the scent of morning coffee, marking the start of a new day.
Unforgettable Moments
The weekend was filled with cherished memories:
- Preparing gazpacho
- Enjoying refreshing British Pimms
- Indulging in Serrano ham from Spain and rustic shabby chic ham board
- Relishing yogurt-marinated legs of lamb and chicken basted with apricot puree
- Creating a delightful buffet table
- Cooking salmon fillet
- Savoring an old-fashioned Coke
Throughout the celebrations, the fire burned brightly, adding warmth and charm to the ambiance. As night fell, a chandelier in the walnut tree lent a romantic touch to the occasion. Laughter and joy filled the air as we shared delicious meals and toasted to our daughter’s 30th year.
Fond Farewells
The day after the festivities unfolded in slow motion. The smell of coffee mingled with the aroma of fresh brioche, and a long-awaited shower rejuvenated weary eyes. Some played rugby, others strolled through the countryside, picking wildflowers to adorn the dressing table, as it was also Mother’s Day. A few chose to relax in comfortable chairs, while the brave ventured out for a horseback ride. Eventually, everyone gathered together for a last feast of delicious leftovers. With pens tucked away and cars waving goodbye, the sun set on a memorable 30th birthday celebration. May she carry these beautiful memories with her throughout her life!
