As has been a "tradition" by now, we celebrated the end of 2009 and the beginning of 2010 with good friends, food and fun. There is no better way of ending the year with like minded people, enjoying each other's company and food. 19 people in total seated at a table.

Our dear friends Davey and Else could not attend, so we were left to our own devices to prepare food and entertainment. Davey is who is a great chef at a golf club in Finland was replaced by a new friend, also a chef, Nicholas, at a golf club (in this case our golf club in Dieppe), who, though couldn't attend the party, prepared most of the food for the evening, leaving time for Trish and myself to mingle with our friends.

Here's the menu:



We started with some delicious hot appetizers, prepared by Nicholas, followed by home made (home being that of Nicholas) foie gras and onion and sweet apple confit, a shrimp, salmon & scallop dish with a home made (by me) cocktail sauce (use a recipe from our friend Carl Chaffee), followed by home made (by Nicholas) lasagna (salmon/spinach and beef) followed by home made (by Christine) chocolate cake with red fruits and cream.

Needless to say, we were all stuffed.



The table was set, and the night's theme was black & white... meaning everyone was to wear black & white clothes..



The first people arrived early, and the ladies got together for a champagne toast. The appetizers and champagne were served in the living room with a roaring fire in the fireplace.



Once all seated, a timer on my camera made a photo of everyone, so this is probably the only photo of me you'll ever see...



The foie gras was a big hit, and quickly we were stuffed..



The Christmas lights and candles in the veranda made the atmosphere romantic and warm..



Lots of photos were being taken by everyone..



Here's the view from the other side of the table..



At the far side were the "young" ones, since they had to sit on a wooden bench..



Some even volunteered to do the dishes in between courses..



At midnight, the usual hugs, kisses & well wishes from everyone.. The new year started well, since desert was eaten in 2010..



A bit of dancing in the kitchen..



Smokers corner..



At 1 o'clock, everyone had to write their new year wish on a piece of paper, and then the papers were redistributed and someone would read the anonymous wish to all, making everyone guess who wished for what..

And that ended a great party. It was fun, and hopefully we'll see another party like that on the 31st of December 2010. Only 365 days to go...