Lovely party, tired Em-i-lis

One important catering lesson I've learned is that no matter how well you prepare in advance, the last four-five hours are always seriously intense ones so you best get a good night's sleep beforehand. Some items simply have to be finished at the last moment, and transport is always somewhat nerve-wracking, especially fragile items like layer cakes. I'm flat on the couch after going full speed ahead for five hours this morning, but the party turned out beautifully and I hope the ladies are still there, eating, full and happy, especially the mom-to-be and her mom, the fab hostess!

Incredible compliment, quiet evening

Today I received one of the loveliest compliments ever, from a dear friend of 19 years who is herself a writer; indeed, she's a two-time published author. Regarding yesterday's posts, she wrote: "Em, you have the most wonderful gift for making the ordinary sublime.  (And the sublime even more so.)  Today's writing simply sings."

People, I cannot tell you how much this observation and resultant appreciation mean to me! A truly sublime compliment, to be sure. Thank you, D!

I feel infinitely more relaxed now, having had several quiet hours alone. The house is tidier, the cheesecake and now-frosted chocolate cakes are in the deep freeze (chocolate ganache freezes beautifully) as are twelve pounds of  vacuum-sealed fresh salmon. I'm packed for my class, the dishwasher is humming, Nutmeg appears to have passed out next to his favorite hanging toy, Percy is snoring (literally), and I'm satiated after a beautiful, big salad of -not a spoiler!- kale, plus radicchio, avocado, tomato, apple, goat cheese and homemade croutons with my beloved garlicked-oil, lemon, and salt dressing. Perfetta! Bene, bene. Vado a letto. Buona notte!

A hell of a party!

Our holiday party last night was absolutely terrific. It is really fun to laugh one's face off with old friends for an entire evening. Great food and drink don't hurt. KKE and SE brought their famous punch and punch bowl, and as promised y'all, you MADE.THE.BLOG! Huge thanks for this bowl of goodness which is one of the most delightful champagne punch recipes ever.

We also indulged in...rosemary salmon, chicken gumbo, leek and goat cheese tart, thyme gougeres, crème fraîche-goat cheese cheesecake with sour cherries, a chocolate-almond cake and lots of wine.