Mid-Winter Feast

On Sunday we had our mid winter celebration. It may not be the middle of winter anymore but it was the coldest day in New Zealand with snow falling to sea level in some parts, so it was certainly a fitting night.

Harry kept the fire going and all the family (except our eldest and her fiance) including our three granchildren were here. That came to eleven, although little Jacob isn't quite up to sitting at the table with us.

Ryan, Jacob and Evelyn

It was interesting as it was the first time Sarah and Jennifer had seen Daniel since he had left home.

Its so much more enjoyable for everyone not to have the expectations of gift buying and other end of year and Christmas functions to go to. There is also the fact that we can choose a day that suits us all.

Our meal was roast lamb flavoured with cloves of garlic and rosemary with mint sauce, served with roasted potatoes, kumera, pumpkin, carrots and parsnips. There was also broccoli with cheese sauce, peas and corn. Dessert was Christmas pudding flavoured with brandy served with whipped cream.

This year I started the afternoon with a high-tea. For those (like Harry) who don't really like sweet treats I also did a platter of chippies, crackers and Camembert cheese, mixed fruit and nuts and marshmallows.

The treats on the tiered cake plate were:

Sesame crackers with dried tomato and garlic hummus and I had topped that with a small sprig of mint and a rosemary flower.

Mini cheese muffins with a little sprig of parsley.

Shortbread.

Chocolate truffles

Cupcakes.

I love it when family are all together and realise how much of a blessing it is having most of them close enough to have these family times.