THE CHRISTMAS PARTY!

Well, it took a little longer than I thought to get this party post up. It has been a crazy week but here we go.

I start out the evening just before everyone arrives by lighting all of the candles.

I have a lot of candles! I adore the farmhouse lit by candlelight. I am always looking for different holders like these metal pinecones I picked up for a couple of dollars at a thrift store. I found the HO HO HO's at the grocery store years ago. They are made of wax so I am really careful with the voltives I don't want them to melt.

I make sure all of the trees are lit and the atmosphere is set.

And let the party begin!

I have a large stainless steel kitchen counter so I set up the food and the bar there. I always have an assortment of coffee, tea or other hot drinks for the end of the evening and everyone takes home a little gift. This year it was Salted Chocolate Shortbread and tradition Scottish Shortbread last year it was Reindeer Fudge which was a huge hit. I am making it again for Christmas if you want the recipe check out last Christmas's post.

For dinner I made the most delicious roast beef ( or so I am told I am a vegetarian). I have re-discovered the Crock Pot. They seem to be making a comeback. I saw this recipe on Pinterest ( love Pinterest!) and had to try it.

 You use any cut of beef and to 1/2 cup of water add 1 envelope gravy, one envelope italian dressing and one envelope ranch dressing. Pour over the top and cook for 7 to 9 hours on medium depending on how big the roast is. I added a little red wine too which made the gravy smell amazing. It will fall apart it is so tender.  I also stirred it a couple of time so the gravy was even and did not stick on the bottom.

 I served it with a root mash of potatoes, yams, and carrots. The beef was ladled on top of the mash with a side dish of cabbage lightly fried with olive oil, bacon, salt and pepper. Huge Hit and so easy.

We had a great time. Lots of laughs and some Misltetoing, I have little Misltoe signs above all the doors and this big one I bought the year we got married. It is a little chintzy but I love it.

At the end of the evening everyone left full, happy and brimming with the spirit of Christmas which is what I love. Another Christmas party done and I am already planning the menu for 2013!