We are really lucky to have a great group of friends from college that isn't mine or Zac's - it's ours! A few years ago (three, to be exact) we decided to start a tradition of getting together at the holidays. Now that we all live in different cities, we hardly ever see each other anymore. It's sad.
To be completely honest, one of our reasons for starting this tradition was so that our kids would be impressed when we had our 19th Annual Friends Christmas. Only 16 more years to go until that milestone!
This year's get together was in Louisville. We started at our friend Katie's house for some yummy pre-dinner appetizers and drinks.
Katie made these yummy caprese salad bites. So good!
We went to a fun local Louisville restaurant that happened to have 1/2 price wine nights (score!). Katie and I split a bottle of wine, but since we were across the table from each other, this is the best picture we could get!
Just use your imagination.
The highlight of the night was definitely our Secret Santa gift exchange. We should have known that everyone would be terribly awesome gifts.
Don't let the pretty wrapping fool you. Or the bow that Joe put on a free briefcase he got for buying cologne. Don't pick that gift, either.
Mandy opened a fireplace DVD. Daniel was creeping behind her.
Matt got this sweet iPhone case. It's an ear.
Kristen opened two (regifted) games - Animal House Trivia and Poker for Lovers, which was way too funny looking not to open! Made for some good laughs.
Katie rocking her new mustache glasses (definitely the coolest gift).
Joe got spy glasses. He is watching Zac over his shoulder through these little mirror things in the sunglasses. Totally inconspicuous.
Daniel was SUPER excited to open presidential PEZ dispensers. You're welcome, Daniel!
Brendan specifically requested this item when he saw a picture of it online. It's a willie warmer, which is a totally inappropriate sweater that I knitted. So worth it when tears ran down his face as he opened it.
Friends Christmas 2011 was a huge success, though I'm officially old enough that staying up until 2 AM hurts for a few days afterward. Thanks to all of our wonderful friends for kicking off the holiday season in such a fun way!! I wish every day could be Friends Christmas... but I guess that was called college, right?
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How fun!! I love your tradition and hopefully it will last for years to come!
ReplyDeleteWere you guys at 60 West?
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful tradition :)
ReplyDeleteThat does look like fun!
And I'm with you...when did staying up until the wee hours change from fun to work?
I hate the recovery time!
Yes! The wine was delicious. The food was good too, though not the best I've ever had?
ReplyDeleteLove the tradition! We do it with our college friends and it's a great time! We on about our 10th year or so? it's super great that you guys do this!
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