The winter months in New England can seem never ending, especially if it is a cold and stormy season. During the ‘long stretch’ from the end of January to mid March when the low temperatures have me feeling a bit melancholy, I think sunshine and fun and use this time to Plan. Plan with a capital P.
Plan the parties and get-togethers I would like to have for my upcoming Patio season.
The best part is I can let my imagination run wild without any pressure. Theme Parties, piece of cake. Intimate dinner gatherings, no problem. First Robin Sighting celebration, how cool!
I came of age in the 80’s. More was better, excess the best. I absolutely adored the huge shoulder pads that gave me the perfect ‘triangle’ look. So flattering. I read The Silver Palate cookbooks like they were steamy romance novels. I fondly remember my first Christmas as a new wife. I wanted the perfect Norman Rockwell Holiday: Big golden brown turkey with all the trimmings. A perfectly matched libation for each course. Chestnuts roasting over an open fire. Yes, I roasted chestnuts … in my fireplace. And they were awesome. My parties were bigger … and less intimate.
These days I want my gatherings to be more about the experience of sharing rather than the show. Sharing good food, good company and hearty laughter. Lots of laughter. Making memories is my top priority because the older I get the more precious they are to me.
So the long winters months are a perfect time to look forward, brainstorm ideas, make playlists and create menus for memorable gatherings. When I get my calendar out, flip to May, June or July, I can almost ‘hear’ the Twilight Lounge abuzz with music and laughter.
It warms my heart.
Cindy says
A good way to pass the winter days.