Weekend Wrap...

yes, i know it's closer to next than last, but wanted to relate..

With all the events of the past weekend, one of the more fun of them sort of slipped my mind (along with the car keys). On Saturday night we joined a group of friends at Historic St. Mary’s City Madrigal dinner. We try to attend every year as it is one of those local things that brings community together in celebration of the Holiday Season. There’s just something comforting being in the State House, decorated as usual by the Margaret Brent Garden Club, and by “usual” I mean they normally do it. It is always beautifully decorated with natural plants and greens differently each year.


After enjoying socializing upstairs with little bits of this, tubs of that, stuffed ham sandwiches, punch or wine, we adjourned downstairs and were seated at the tables, set with a salad of field greens. Each place setting had a program/menu card with “Lord (or Lady) ”, and a little sprig of fresh holly. We had a great table by the risers for the choir and near the door in case a trip to “the necessary” was called for. Always appreciated. Since the setting is supposed to approximate the 17th century, the ladies who bring the food are referred to as “wenches”. We all had a good chuckle when our wench came to the table and announced she would be taking care of us. Little did she know she was taking care of the Bottom Feeder. A plated dinner was served, containing a nice piece of pepper encrusted tenderloin, a small piece of Rockfish Chesapeake (i.e., crab on top), some green beans, and roasted root vegetables (carrots and potatoes). Everything was actually pretty good, and the wine (Sauvignon Blanc or red meritage) flowed freely. Fried oysters (yes, I know, I’m still working) were served family style and I did my part. They were quite good. Dessert was a Smith (style) Island cake.

During the dinner the period costumed interpreters appeared occasionally with toasts, repartee and kept everyone in good humor. St. Maries Musica performed seasonal and Christmas carols. They too were in period costumes. They do community concerts around the area, you should try and catch a concert. They’re quite good. At the end of the evening everyone stood, joined hands and sang the traditional “Silent Night”. After that you’re supposed to throw your little sprig of holly into the fire as a sign of good luck for the coming year. We did, and we’re hopeful.

So it was one of those lovely evenings where friends gathered, had fun, talked, and enjoyed good food. There are three more dinners this weekend, normally sold out, but if you really want to go you could check with the city (240-895-4991). The money raised goes toward programs and keeping the Living History Museum alive!!

Next morning I gave a special “Chapel Tour” to the same bunch. I love talking about it..

Okay, suitcases begin to come up from the basement, MOMSTER had preventative maintenance and we’re gearing up for the journey.. and we will pack duds so we can be

DFD