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Saturday was a pretty exciting day around here. Not only was it the official end of Mike’s endless studying for his exam, but it was also his birthday!

The not-so-exciting part of the day was that he actually had to take the exam. All day. On his birthday.

So we planned an exciting evening - complete with friends, Red Bulls soccer and dinner and drinks at one of his favorite bars.

The only good part of Mike being hold-up in taking his exam all day was that I was able to assemble his birthday cake and party favors without him having any idea.

The theme of these treats was inspired by his (and my) favorite liquor: Maker’s Mark.

We started off by enjoying my Chili Lime Tequila Popcorn at the Red Bulls game:

Later, after a late dinner, it was time for cake. I wanted to create not only an extra special looking, but also tasting cake for the celebration.

The flavors I created were bourbon-orange chocolate cake with spiced vanilla buttercream.

After everyone was sugared-up from the cake, I handed out the party favors, to thank everyone for coming out to celebrate the special day.

A fun, relaxing evening with friends and surprise sweets. I can’t imagine a better way to kick-off a new year.

As you might remember, I have a bit of a gripe with stadium food.

I’m not talking about Citi Field, where I could live on Box Frites with the super-addictive bacon sauce. Although my thighs might protest my diet change.

And I’m not talking about my beloved Fenway Park, where a Fenway Frank somehow tastes gourmet among the atmosphere, game and fans.

I’m talking about just about every other stadium. The lines. The prices. The soggy, flavorless reward.

Luckily, most stadiums will now allow you to bring in a “modest” amount of food.

Here inlies the problem: what is considered a “modest” amount of food? For 2 people? What if I’m meeting more people and bringing them food? Is that then considered an immodest amount of food for one person to bring into the stadium?

Yes, I think/worry about such things.

Yes, my hands begin sweating when I have to hand my bag over to be checked before entering the stadium.

No, I’m not a goody-two shoes. Why do you ask?

But - once you taste this popcorn, I guarantee the thought of some security guard confiscating this treat might also push you to the edge of hysterics.

After making the popcorn, willing my hand away from eating it all before the game, fitting it securely in the bottom of my Kate Spade (known as just “Kate” around these parts), I was worried 4 quarts of popcorn might be excessive for 2 people.

Is it? I don’t know.

When something tastes this good, it can’t be that bad for you. At least, that’s what Mike and I told ourselves as we consumed this popcorn by the fist-full.

Buttery. Spicy. Zippy. Boozy.

Popcorn that begs for a good game and a big margarita.

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