Holiday Wrap-Up

Hey guys and gals!

Well I think it's best I update now before I have too many thoughts piled up that I want to get down here.

The holidays are winding down (I can't believe it's already January 8th!), and I must say my jeans are a little tight around the waist. I ate, drank, and was generally merry. Christmas and New Year's were nice, I enjoyed myself very much so.

One of the biggest highlights of the break was our family dinner get together with my mom's best friend Penny and her sister Debbie at their beautiful lakehouse. Penny is a fantastic cook, as she always has been. The night started off with cotton candy martinis made with blood orange liquer... let's just say I had a few too many, but they were so darn tasty! Of course, the actual food was delicious as well- chicken parmigiana with penne and vodka sauce, and chicken francaise with penne and garlic and brocolli. I stuffed my face full, but managed to save a little room for dessert, which I made! I brought tiramisu made with Kaluha, as well as chocolate panna cotta with toasted almonds and freshly made amaretto whipped cream (recipe compliments of Giada DeLaurentiis, my favorite chef!). The panna cotta stole the show of the evening, with raving reviews from Penny, Debbie (who is apparently hard to please), and everyone else who took a bite. Success! :)

New Year's Eve, I hosted a small fondue party with some friends. The menu consisted of three cheese fondue (fontina, parmesan, and Velveeta- don't laugh, it melts soooo well) with an assortment of dippers, and chocolate fondue made with good quality (not to mension expensive!) Lindt chocolate with sweet goodies to dunk. The party was an overall success and very fun time... a big hit were the mocktails I made to order, particularly a recipe I whipped up for Peach Bellinis.

Peach Bellinis

1 part grenadine

2-3 parts peach nectar, depending on taste

1-2 parts club soda

Mix well, making sure ingredients are chilled beforehand. Enjoy!

And enjoy we did...