The EVE..

Changing my normal boring trait of (dull?) chronological reporting, due to fear of running out of time, I am going to start with the present (a clever Christmas literary pun).  After safely (but tiringly) arriving at Cape and FOJTY’s on Monday (okay a little chronology) we journeyed up the road last night to FOJTE’s house for the traditional Christmas Eve dinner.   As usual the house was beautifully decorated in anticipation of a lovely dinner.

The table included the “Friendly Village” place settings that were the pride of “Gramma Moody”, so I’m sure that she was smiling down on us..  We began with a lovely Charcuterie plate expertly prepared and assembled by well, the Bottom Feeder (who is always completely objective)

With saucisson sec, sopressata, chorizo (from Portland, OR), and cheeses from Beechers and Dean and DeLuca…wonderful stuff.  Also we had the traditional "enhanced" chex mix, some great clam dip, and washed down by a cocktail prepared by MOJTE’s friend who is an expert drink maker (no, I am NOT going to use mixologist) which contained, among other things, rosemary!  And it was one of those cocktails that makes you think you’re just having fruit juice (why yes, you can top me off!)… for a while.

Eventually we got called to the table and began the meal that of course included Lasagna, but began with another staple of this dinner, the famous "salad a la Beth":

Which was tossed over greens and served with a warming mushroom (“fungi”) soup and homemade baguettes made earlier and brought by FOJTY:

Main course was the aforementioned Lasagna, and this year augmented by a (Big Green Egg) roasted and stuffed pork tenderloin.  Wines included a Domaine Mumm Brut Rose with the first course and a choice of Seghesio or Duckhorn “Decoy” Zinfandel.  Whew!!  And to top it all off one had to choose (or the famous "just a little (ha ha) of each!" between pumpkin or chocolate pie for dessert.  Oh, and a choice coffee beverages.  It was a very fun evening of good cheer, family, and friends.  Thanks to the FOJ's and company for another great dinner.  And, we didn’t have to do the dishes!!

And so, with FOJTY at the controls of the MOMSTER, we headed south in the deepening night.

Somehow even though it was Christmas Eve, Taj Mahal and Statesboro Blues seemed highly appropriate…

So we prepare for the family to assemble today for present opening and more cheer… and yes, we will all be

DFD

 

Have a great Christmas Day all, enjoy the company of whoever you are celebrating with, and remember those who are away or no longer with us…