Food and Family

Food in my family is, well, a BIG thing. Very big. Sunday phone calls consist of the question: So what did you have for dinner today? Holiday's revolve around meals and we have traditions that are set in stone--any fluctuation will cause at least one person in our family to roar in protest.

It has become clear to me that the reason I love to cook and create is for others to enjoy it, not simply the action. I love eating just as much as the next girl and can down more than most, but the joy of food comes from sharing it. Cooking is one of my hobbies, but cooking for my family is my passion. And I miss it. I knew this when I asked to host an "Hors d'oeuvres party of the century" for my family. It was my good bye gift to them. Here are a few pictures from it. (And if you read my mom's blog, you saw them already).

Honey Glazed Spiced Nuts

Ginger Scented Pecans

Leek and Ricotta Tart

Pigs-In-Blankets

Bacon and Onion Tartlets

Olive and red pepper bruschetta

Homemade cheddar Cheese Icebox Crackers

Homemade Parmesan Rosemary Icebox Crackers

Homemade Gruyere Thyme Icebox Crackers

Crudites with Canelli Bean and roasted red pepper dip and homemade ranch dip

Parmesan Puff Pastry Straws

Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Lemon Tea Cakes

Chocolate Pretzels

And we also had fruit kabobs with a cheesecake cream dip. 

Abby ecstatically agreed to help out. She made clothespin people as place markers (the people matched ourselves perfectly: Hair and eye color, type of clothes worn, headband? ect.) She is amazing.  

Sparkling Cranberry Juice

I had fun. :) And just for the record, I spent 3 days in the kitchen for at least 8 hours each day. Bliss. Although, I did get blisters on the bottom of my feet...

And you are all invited to my next party.