Mainely Martha

Still on a high from Thanksgiving; having so enjoyed the food, drink and most of all the company… has made me almost giddy in anticipation for Christmas! Yes, stay calm, we are almost at December 1st and the fun has already begun. The shopping has started, packages are arriving daily, but more importantly… the cookie baking is well underway, with a couple of favorites already tucked away in the freezer and dough for another settled in the fridge. But it is not all about the baking, there are also so many different holiday gatherings leading up to and including the big day itself.

This season brings about so many of my favorite things…eating, drinking and being merry with my family and friends. While I have shared a couple of recipes to date, I will be sure to have a vast amount added over the next few weeks to hopefully help inspire you in preparing for your holiday events. This will include recipes for cookies and cakes to share with friends, appetizers and cocktails for the get-togethers and festive parties as well as brunch and dinner ideas for the main event. And while we sprinkle in some shopping and wrapping of gifts over the next few weeks, it is the time spent with family and friends that is the true magic of the season.

I have the fondest memories of this time of year growing up, with the aromas from the kitchen filling the house and always celebrating the holiday surrounded by family. Over the years, the family has grown; in-laws, children, nieces, nephews, great-nephews , and my enjoyment for the season has grown as well, which I attribute to this/them. Our family holiday is full of delicious food, created by the many great cooks and bakers in the family, strong drinks and maybe even some drinking games and last but not least,  joyful merriment. Take time during this hurried season to enjoy; eat, drink & be merry!