CELEBRATING THE HOLIDAYS

Yesterday a table setting greeted us when we sat down to a festive lunch at JoAnn and Bill's.   I am always amazed at the lovely decorated scene and taking in all the mastery in doing it.    It spreads a whole lot of happiness.   

Now isn't this just lovely?   I enjoy the decorated place settings of times long ago that JoAnn has saved over the years.   It seems to bring some magic to the table!

The holiday plates make the dessert extra special as the goodies seem to sit there gracefully after one wonderful meal, waiting for a bite of several delicacies.    Leon and I went back for seconds.   Not a thing we should be doing, but oh my they were good! 

I had to have the recipe for this Italian appetizer - Provolone cheese topped over cream cheese and butter with pine nuts scattered throughout - adding bell pepper, sun-dried tomatoes, pesto and olive oil - tasting so good together.   I'm making this to take to a dinner party this week.   I couldn't stop eating it over crackers with a few grapes sitting there adding a bit of sweetness!

"Chicago Bill" put on a gangster face for this photo while wearing a NOEL bow tie.   The table of eaters laughed at his rendition of a wise guy, a thug, making the eating that more festive!    It just happened to be a wonderful holiday meal with dear friends enjoying each other's antics.