Keep on Rockin' in the Backyard

I had quite a hall for my birthday this year. It seems giving no gift guidance whatsoever has really paid off. To everyone who was kind enough to send a card or a gift, thank you. You've outdone yourselves as usual. What was so great you ask? How about a pair of outdoor speakers that look like rocks? That's right, now when we give people directions to the house, we can just tell them to keep driving until they hear the Slipknot coming from the backyard. Oh ya, and how about a fully automated hydroponics garden? I'm definitely going to be growing some herbs this Winter. No, not those kinds of herbs, you degenerate. I'm talking about basil, mint, cilantro, and the like. Now lets discuss the wine themed gifts. A WineStyles gift certificate which, is always handy. We've got to keep the cellar inventory at a sufficient level. You never know, they could re-enact prohibition at any moment and I don't want to get caught off guard. Then there's the gift certificate to Cooper's Hawk, a restaurant and winery that I've been dying to try. Last but not least, the instant read digital thermometer from ThermoWorks they recommended in Cooks Illustrated. We tried taking our own temperature with it but, I think I'm better off using it on a roast. It's tough having such a thoughtful family. Thanks.