This time of year is exciting for so many people. Family,
friends old and new, parties, food, drinks, presents, decorations and music are
everywhere you go.
Margot and I always look forward to our open house before
Christmas. That event gives us one more chance to spend time with our extended
family (that’s all who come) and spread some joy before a busy week of
travelling, hosting and who knows what else for the holidays!
Another year, and another fun party. There was lots of
laughter and mingling. Everyone had a good time and for that we are grateful.
That’s why we do it.
The house decorations this year were some of our best.
Margot was especially proud of the tree, and rightfully so. Taking some cues
from our friends Ed & Jim, the tree sports ribbons and a simple color
palette of blue, silver and white.
Every year we pick a beverage theme, it’s what we do if you
will, and this year was punch. Last week I shared “I’m Going to PunchYou For the Holidays” and “Here We Come A-wassailing” and the experiments
making several new beverages to serve at the party.
( Ready for action! )
Those who left later in the day went home with punch, a
token to keep the good cheer rolling with.
The food worked out well as it usually does, and the table looked
festive when it was setup. We really didn’t fuss over it this year, and we didn’t
make anything special except Margot’s cookies, an orange glazed sugar cookie
and a spicy chocolate cookie containing cayenne, black pepper and cinnamon. I
did land a new recipe in the bean dip I prepared, taken directly from Giada andthe Food Network.
( Just before guests arrived. Ready to go! )
By the end of the party we noticed that between the wassail
and general interest we put back quite a few beers. Most of the wine was
opened, but not too much went. The Lamoreaux Landing Estate White Blend
resonated with several guests after I gave it taste and shared my positive
feedback. The Tarara BossaNoVA was the solid performer that I expected it to
be. I finished the night with it, the bold flavors can be savored like port.
It’s gonna be a tough week tasting my way through the rest of the bottles…
The Christmas theme continues this week with sparkling
cocktails tomorrow and mulled wine on Wednesday. I finish the week with figgy
pudding, something I’ve never had or made and is sure to get me in the
Christmas spirit! I won’t let you go without some. And then Margot and I will
go visit family taking it with us to spread that cheer even farther.
How are you gearing up from Christmas? Shopping, spending
time in the kitchen or have you figured out how to get away from it all? Merry
Christmas!
Cheers!
Jason
3 comments:
Giada's white bean dip has long been my base/starting point for hummus-like creations. I don't typically have tahini in the fridge, so it's perfect for a quick fix to take to parties.
Happy holidays
food looks wonderful
I love how your commentary on the wines reads a bit as if you were talking about athletes. :-) Looks like a wonderful party and I will admit I am jealous of your tree. It's very elegant and classic. Mine I will say is quite the opposite - all about kitch.
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