Thanks, Milton & Beth!

My ever-so-loving father & mother-in-law gave me this beer boot for my last anniversary.  After snapping this picture I promptly consumed its contents, not wanting the beer to sit too long unattended.  That's me, always thinking of the beer.

Thanks, Mom!

My mom surprised me with an autographed copy of Brew Food, a cookbook featuring San Diego beers, chefs, and recipes.  Autographed by the author and several local beer "celebrities", I'll have a good time cooking my way through the beer-laden recipes.  Actually, The Hop Mommy will have a good time cooking her way through the recipes and I'll have a good time eating them!

Thanks, Jacob & Ellice!

My Temecula correspondent and his wife brought me a growler of Descend Black IPA from the newly opened Wiens Brewing Co.  If you are familiar with the Temecula wine scene you probably know of Wiens Family Cellars.  Once focused solely on winemaking, they have opened a brewery now, as well.  I have yet to try the beer, but am anxious to do so.  I am also anxious to make my own journey to the young brewery, but will post Jacob's review in the meantime.  Until then, I've got a growler to open!

Thanks, Tom & Cherie!

As a belated anniversary gift, my sister & brother-in-law brought me these gems from Colorado.  I profiled Odell Brewing Co. here last year, and it remains one of my favorite Fort Collins breweries.  I'll be saving these beauties for a special occasion!

Thanks, Cyrus & Sarah!

My brother & sister-in-law got this for my 20th anniversary, which I've been wanting since last year's Great American Beer Festival.  Thanks guys, you rock!

Thanks, Zeke!

My 9-year-old son picked this cool stein out for my anniversary.  I, of course, supplied the 2009 Stone Double Bastard with which it is filled.  Sweet!

Who got one of these this year?

Thanks, Kevin!

My boss, whose favorite beer is Pabst Blue Ribbon and who isn't particularly well-versed in beer, bought me a bottle as a gift today. It was completely unexpected, so when I was presented with the tall brown paper bag I was happy to receive whatever he had gotten me. Imagine my surprise when I pulled out an AleSmith Wee Heavy Scotch Style Ale! That went right into my cellar for a little aging. For his limited beer knowledge he made a very good choice. Nicely done Kevin, nicely done!