See Michelle Obama's Surprise Birthday Cake

01/28/2009 at 01:50 PM EST

When a new First Family moves into the White House, staffers typically gather in the East Room for a chance to formally welcome the incoming lady of the house.

But this year's meet-and-greet featured an element of surprise: As a casually-dressed Michelle Obama arrived for the event Jan. 22, White House pastry chef Bill Yosses and assistant pastry chef Susie Morrison wheeled out a cake topped with fruit, candles and best wishes spelled out on a plaque.

The First Lady had already celebrated her actual 45th birthday Jan. 17, but the idea was sweet. No word on how much of the cake Mrs. Obama actually ate.
– Patrick Rogers