What a brilliant weekend - we had friends around on Saturday night for a meal. I just kept it simple with cold meat platter to start accompanied by pickles and olives. I did, however, make some home made chutney and onion relish. I didn't realise how easy it is to make. The chutney was delicious with a tangy taste as I used apples, onions and a blob of festive mincemeat from a jar. I found this recipe and did add a few twists of my own but it was really easy to do and looked so good in some kilner food preserve jars I bought online, served to the table. We had chicken casserole as a main and trifle to follow. I think it's really important when you do home entertaining to make a homely, nourishing but easy to make ahead menu. Then you can enjoy being with your guests and dining at home is relaxed and stress free. It was a lovely evening with some lovely wine, great company and a warming meal.
The menu was so simple that we even had chance to nip out to see a National Trust property. The Trust offers great days out in the UK for all visitors. They've really latched on to being family friendly over the last few years. I know when our kids were small we were definitely in the minority visitng National Trust with children in tow. They have loads more activities now for families to bring kids along for a great time. We went to Coughton Court and toured the house, which was dressed for Christmas. The theme was a simple Victorian style affair with lovely paper cones and paper chains on the trees- very effective and charming in it's simplicity. We were also treated to a display form the local ladies choir who sang beautifully well known carols but with a different arrangement to give a twist to the songs. As we stood at the top of the wooden imposing staircase gazing down over the chandeliers, stately furniture and open fire we listened to the choir. It was truly magical and again so simple yet moving. I really felt as if I'd travelled back in time to a less modern and bustling era.
On Sunday we treated my lot to a meal out. We all met up from various areas of the country for a get together and chat. It was lovely to see everyone together as with most people we're normally so busy it's hard to get everyone to meet up. The meal wasn't the best and the waiting staff were a bit ignorant but we had a great chat exchanged photos and left with promises to meet up again soon. Next time we'll book at a better venue. Can't wait for next weekend to do some more National Trust visits - they have some really lovely Christmas events on at the moment.
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