My parents and I enjoyed a special meal on New Year’s Eve. We were a party of three. Many years ago, a young nephew was disappointed that only ten people came to his birthday party—but it’s all relative. His immediate family numbered seven, while mine was, and still is, much smaller. For me, a party can be just myself, and two or three people are more than enough for it to feel like a celebration.

Because of the weather, I delivered a similar meal to Carol earlier in the day. She couldn’t join us in person as she is recovering from surgery. My parents drank champagne, while I enjoyed carbonated tea. The food was delicious. It had been awhile since we last made the Artichoke Bruschetta, but it’s a recipe we’ve enjoyed on occasion since the late 1990s. A memorable and fun time was had by all three of us!

DECORATIONS

• A 2026 sign I made from paper
• “Happy New Year” paper napkins
• Assorted horns and blowers
• A fun floral arrangement made by my mom (my suggestion was to add a Happy New Year crown)
• Glasses – antiques my Mom received many years ago from her parents’ neighbor.

Charcuterie

• Mature Cheddar Star from Aldi
• Wegmans Mild Cremeux de Bourgogne
• Black Olives
• Green Olives
• Candied Pecans
• Cocoa covered Cashews
• Pita Crackers
• Rustic Bakery Sourdough Flatbread
• Mixed Honey Nuts from Trader Joes
• Carrots
• Radish
• Cauliflower

Artichoke Rosemary Bruschetta

Ice Cream Sundaes

Delivery for Carol.