Over the last few weeks, I’ve had the joy of
reconvening with old friends and loved ones near and far to celebrate the
holidays. I know I’m lucky to have friends in so many places, and I truly value
the opportunity to slow down and enjoy their company this time of year. Last
night, my neighbor Deborah invited several of the Bunko girls and I over for a
wine and cheese party to reunite. Her kitchen and living room were filled with a smorgasbord
of delicious cheeses from around the world. I should have known I’d break my
diet around this time of year... but I think it’s alright to indulge one night
or two. I’ve been very good so far and am happy with my progress!
Anyway, the cheese appetizers she had were
unreal. They were just too good. My favorites were Brie de Melun from France,
English Farmhouse Cheddar from England, Parmigiano Reggiano from Italy,
Constant Bliss from Vermont, and Piave from Italy. She paired them with several
different kinds of breads including pumpernickel, French baguettes and flaky
croissants. Deb recommended adding Nutella on top of the Brie de Melun and
heating them up in a toaster oven until melted, which I’d never heard of before. Oh
man, did she knew what she was talking about! For drinks, we enjoyed Winter
White by Leelanau Cellars, Pinot Grigio by Barefoot Wine, and Garnacha Calatayud by Cruz de Piedra. I’d
recommend them all, but I am particularly fond of wines by Leelanau Cellars.
They’re all really inexpensive as wine goes, and easy to find. Nothing fancy, but good nevertheless.
Overall, it was a
wonderful evening. Deb’s home is beautiful— it looks like something out of a
Home and Garden Magazine. I was really drawn to her eclectic use of mixed patterns
in her living room. She paired mismatched pillows ranging from a raspberry
sherbet color to a rich, bold teal with a texturized rug. It looked especially
nice with her dark hardwood floors and vintage furniture. Apparently she hand-painted the desk herself after being inspired on Pinterest. I’ll have to go on that site and look for some ideas of my own. I also really liked these small copper lamps she bought to
light the pathway leading to her front door. I bet it looks really pretty when it snows, but it's been oddly warm here lately. I’m thinking about updating our outdoor lighting this coming spring, just to spruce things up a bit. I’d love to be
able to return the favor and host a fun get together in our backyard once it
warms up.
Hope you’re all
enjoying this December as much as I am. Happy Holidays and Happy New Year to
you all!
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