Progressive Dinner Party

I love our neighborhood! I may be partial but believe we live on the best cul-de-sac in our community with friendly, sweet neighbors that truly make it somewhere special to live.


One day last spring while out walking with Teagan I met Shanna, Dave and Caleb in their front yard and we discovered we were in the same prenatal classes! It turns out little Caleb and Teagan were born just one day apart! That day marked the start of a great friendship that led to being introduced to Krissy and Kevin who's little boy Jackson (Jack) is also the same age. They just moved into our neighborhood earlier this year.
Now the moms and our children meet regularly for walks, playdates and dinners. We also discovered within weeks of each other that we were expecting our second children which has made going through this pregnancy with them and our comrades from the larger Thursday playdate group so much fun! It also helps that our husbands share a love of golf and drink or too!

We decided to wrap up the holiday season with a progressive dinner party between our three houses.

The Kellys were in charge of desserts which included a fun yuletide log that Betty taught me learn to make. It took HOURS people. Hours. But I can now proudly say I know how to make a mean chocolate ganache and pastry cream! We also made Oreo truffles and chocolate bark to go along with Brian's Irish Coffees! Very festive indeed!

Krissy, Kevin and Jackson hosted us with two amazing fondues that took me right back to my travels in Switzerland!

The poor cat was a hit and took refuge from three curious toddlers behind the stair gate!

I had to capture this picture of Teagan in her cute skirt for the R family who gave it to her. Isn't it perfect for the holidays and beyond? Unfortunately she is going through a phase where she likes to take off her clothes...anywhere, anytime. Daddy is thrilled with this latest development. Not!

I love, love, love Shanna and Dave's decorating style. Their dinners are always gourmet and elegant. I thought these plates and chargers were to die for! We had homemade mac-n-cheese with the most amazing chili which Dave made using his new smoker! It was unlike any chili we've ever had and D-lish, with a capital D!

Betty and Da Boys! Merry Christmas!!