"40" - It's a Number of Biblical Proportions

Now here's a lucky guy, I an Saunders, who got to celebrate his 40th birthday in his own unique style!

He's marking the transition to the big 4-0 tonight with a 40-course mega-meal, much of which he will prepare. Mega, as in the need for 640 plates and 240 wine glasses, which wiped out a rental outfit with everything but its Christmas settings. ("It's not like I had 640 plates in the cupboard," he said.)

And mega, as in the price tag.

"Probably about $2,500," he said. "I figure you only turn 40 once. 'What do I do when I turn 80?' is the real question."

Egads!

The only rule: The food must be French. (Saunders and his wife visit France every year, always staying in the same room in the same Paris hotel.)

Choosing the guests wasn't easy, said Saunders, who worries about those he left off the list. He chose friends who had cooked unforgettable meals for him, those who had traveled to France and appreciate all things French, and family members.

Still waiting for my invitation . . . waiting . . . je suis en train d'attendre . . . oh well. Besides, I have another installment today in a birthday marathon that's been going on.

Via Ace of Spades HQ.