Birthday Weekend Bonanza!

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I never make a big fuss about my birthday. Still, since it happens to fall on a major holiday, I always feel a bit of joy knowing that, even if people aren't celebrating me, they're out partying just the same.

But this post isn't really about me.

The real star of the weekend? My wonderful, handsome husband, Joe, who celebrates his birthday on August 13th. If I had all the money in the world, I’d throw him the most unforgettable birthday bash, because he deserves the world and then some. While we couldn’t go all out with a huge party or fancy dinner, we made sure to celebrate him all weekend long. And it was perfect.

First Stop: Wildwood, NJ — Arcade Adventures

We kicked things off with a trip to Wildwood for some fun at Mariner’s Arcade, hands down one of the best arcades around when it comes to prizes and ticket payouts. I won’t say how many tickets we’re hoarding, but let’s just say... we’re this close to cashing in on an autographed Eagles helmet! 

Birthday magic was definitely in the air! Joe hit the jackpot on several games, including digital poker. Naturally, I rewarded his wins with some Kohr Bros. Ice Cream before we hit the road home. Our Wildwood stop was short but sweet — we had to hurry back for our dinner plans with friends at The ChopHouse in Gibbsboro.

Dinner at The ChopHouse in Gibbsboro, NJ – Classy & Cozy

According to South Jersey Magazine, The ChopHouse opened in 2002, and it’s definitely earned its reputation. It’s a sophisticated, steakhouse-style restaurant where upscale dining meets understated elegance. They recommend business casual attire, which I personally love. Getting dressed up for dinner makes the night feel extra special. Honestly, more places should encourage a dress code; taking a little time to show up for yourself is what life’s really about.

We sat at a large table with friends, ordered a round of drinks, and I sipped on a blood orange fauxhito — a refreshing citrus-mint blend. Though there wasn’t a full mocktail menu, the server let me know they could craft anything I wanted. Talk about classy service!

Everyone ordered different steak cuts, but I went with the salmon — and wow. Perfectly cooked, tender, flavorful... possibly the best salmon I’ve ever had. I was so excited I snapped a mid-meal photo (sorry, not the most Instagram-worthy, but totally worth it). Joe was surprised with a birthday dessert — and I blinked, and it was gone. Whipped cream and all. 

Off to Lewes, Delaware – More Adventures Await

After a quick rest at home, we hit the road again — this time to Lewes, Delaware to visit my aunt for a relaxing weekend full of food, exploration, and whatever else we felt like doing.

Pro tip: If you’re planning to take the Cape May–Lewes Ferry, book at least 24 hours in advance! We learned that the hard way. Our detour added about an hour to the trip, but hey — it’s vacation. We weren’t in a rush.

Once we dropped our bags at my aunt’s, it was time for dinner.

Big Oyster Brewery — A Joe Favorite

Joe has worked the AC Beer and Music Festival with me the past four years, and last year he discovered his favorite brewery: Big Oyster Brewery. After many samples and a couple of freebies, he crowned them best in show. Naturally, we had to visit.

Located just minutes from the Lewes Ferry, Big Oyster has it all: happy hour, live music, indoor/outdoor seating, a kid-friendly play area, and a true community vibe. They aim to be more than just a brewery and they succeed.

We were seated immediately at a high-top table with a view of their impressive brewing setup. When I asked about mocktails, I braced for the usual shrug — but to my delight, they had a dedicated mocktail menu! 🙌 I ordered the Strawberry Ginger Mocktail — a perfect mix of strawberry purée, lime juice, and ginger beer. Sweet, tangy, and just the right kick from the ginger. It was smooth and spicy all at once hard to explain, but totally addictive.

Food, Friends, and Full Bellies

Then came the food — and wow. We shared bubbling crab dip and loaded cheesy bacon tots. Everything came out hot, but not mouth-burning, so we dove right in. My main? Shrimp tacos, seasoned to perfection, fresh, and bursting with flavor. I didn’t think I’d finish them all… but sometimes your taste buds convince your stomach otherwise. So good!

Sunset Serenity

Later that evening, my aunt led us to a hidden gem for sunset-watching. Around 7:30 PM, we laid out beach blankets and soaked in the view. Boats glided by, waves lapped the rocks, kids played in the distance, and fishermen lined the jetties. We watched the sun transform from a bright yellow orb to a deep red fireball before dipping beneath the horizon. It was peaceful, grounding, and the perfect end to a beautiful day.

Joe may not have had fireworks and balloons, but he had the most important thing: a weekend surrounded by people who love and appreciate him. He’s the kind of person who never wants the party to end and for him, neither do I.

Now, as I sit here typing and Joe’s smile slowly fades with the weekend coming to a close, I realize I better wrap this up… so we can start planning our next adventure. 


The Chophouse: 10 out of 10. Amazing service, great food, a bit pricey but it is a steakhouse, but what made it a 10? Signature Mocktails!!


The Big Oyster Brewery: 10 out of 10. Kind workers, great bar food, decently priced, and THEY HAD A MOCKTAIL MENU!!! 


Until Next Time, 

The Sober Party Girl
Location: Atlantic County, NJ, USA

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