holiday celebrations

Yesterday during a conversation with friend about the holidays, I mentioned that we were a pretty traditional family. His response? "No!" So, maybe mine was an understatement. But there is something very soothing to me about traditions. And perhaps that is why tonight we are having our traditional Christmas eve dinner.

Yes, I know, it's not Christmas Eve. However, tomorrow night we are going to a friend's house to celebrate Christmas in the Swedish tradition. Our dinner tonight happened quite by accident, actually. I had this dinner planned all week but hadn't gotten around to making it. So tonight was the default night. Now we just happen to have steak on Christmas Eve, and that is what we are having tonight. Only, we are having it in the dining room with a very nice bottle of Cline Syrah, roasted asparagus and heirloom tomato salad. Sounds celebratory to me! The only thing missing is oysters on the half shell. But perhaps we will save those for New Year's Eve.

Today is the first day I really felt relaxed. All the shopping and wrapping is done. The stocking stuffers are waiting to be stuffed. Dinner is planned. The house is clean. The dog is washed. Perhaps this is what I meant by a relaxing holiday. Note to self: preparations before the holiday make for a relaxing few days with family.