Chinese Take-Out, for a Crowd

My sister was born on the day after Christmas.  She's never been the biggest fan of her birthday, but she has inspired a beloved family tradition:  Each year, we celebrate her big day with a trip to a local Chinese restaurant that we've frequented since we were kids.  King's Island's eclectic menu features delicious version of the usual suspects, plus a full sushi menu, as well as a "American specialties" section (steak, potatoes, and the like) that no one ever orders from. 

Because there are three small grandchildren in the family (and one on the way), this year's birthday feast took place at my parents' house, so we wouldn't have coordinate around different food and sleep schedules.  I was charged with ordering enough take-out for the 15 or so guests--and, with portion sizes that are much larger than New York's, we had enough for dinner and several days' leftovers.

We emptied the containers of egg drop soup into a pot to simmer on the stove.  I'm convinced that soup tastes better when it's eaten out of a favorite mug.

The best part about this meal, food-wise, was that we all had the chance to sample lots of different dishes, without having to say, "Could I try yours?"

various entrees

sushi for the wusses (me) and the experts (my sister)

I highly recommend take-out for a large group if you want to try lots of different things.  As my college friend used to say when we went out to the Chinese buffet, "be sure to wear your stretchy pants!" 

The birthday girl!  7 months pregnant and still always ready for a party.

The final touch:  a Cold Stone ice cream cake.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SISTER!  Hope we can be together for next year's birthday dinner, too!