Reply #10: Overall or in detail?

[Stinky The Clown]

Overall ... pretty well, actually.

In detail ... not so much. The young 'uns pooped out after the antipasta and soup. They nibbled on the fish course, is about all.

The meat course ... everyone was stuffed. I didn't even bother to make the veal.

But the biggest disaster of the evening ...... I thought the bracciole was in the warmer and it was in the oven ... for about an hour too long. The gravy on top was cinderized. The meat beneath, however, was very good and actually got rave reviews.

Sparkly Jr was so tired she damn near fell asleep at the table. Poor kid. She was the only one who had to work today. Lots of wine got consumed, though. Three bottles of bubbly, four bottles of white, three bottles of zin, one cabernet and one reisling.

The kitchen looks as if it had been vandalized.

But all in all, the night was a success. Its the company of friends and family that really matters ... and we were blessed with that in spades. You all know that ours in a blended family. The kids are really bonded and although my sons and Sparkly Jr are not related, they treat each other as if they are. I am so blessed to be a part of the family God has given me.

I love them all.

And to all here, may your holiday be as warm and wonderful as mine has been.