Food, Family and Fourty

My husband's family arrived this past weekend for a surprise birthday visit. In the process of figuring out what to prepare for a fun dinner at home for 8 people ranging in age from 4 to 73, I realized how important the right selection for your menu is. Long story short I settled on a FABULOUS clam recipe from Tom Colicchio, Think Like A Chef, Clams with pancetta, roasted tomatoes and greens. I also splurged on Blue Point Oysters on the half shell to eat in the kitchen (where everyone gathers anyway). Good Wine, rustic bread and great help from my brother-in-law. 

We began eating and I sat back, took a good sip of my favorite South African wine, Chocolate Block, and watched the interaction. There was fun stories, bantering, impromptu dances performed and bedtime curfews completely BLOWN! The food was such a wonderful facilitator to this evening. I loved it, and the food, and my family.

The weekend was then topped off with a surprise 40th bowling party. I can't express how much good friends mean to me. Thank you to all that helped pull it off!