I had such a wonderful Christmas holiday week, and I hope you did too! Here’s a recap of our festive celebrations:

December 23rd: Starting Our Christmas Traditions

Nathan and I kicked off Christmas on December 23rd with our tradition of a nice dinner out. This year, we went to Seventh South Craft Food and Drink, enjoying a delicious meal together. Once we got home, it was time for the babies to open their stockings.

The stockings are simple—just catnip and tissue paper—but our fur babies absolutely love them! Pictured from left to right, clockwise: Berlioz, Ortensia, Calliope (Fuzz), Mochi, and Thalia (Little).

Olivia, who is still a bit shy around the others, did come out to play with her stocking, which was a heartwarming moment.

I couldn’t resist capturing a video of them playing. Watching their excitement always feels like one of the highlights of our holiday season..

After the stockings, Nathan and I exchanged gifts. The standout present this year was tickets to the Tournament of Champions event at the Miami Wine and Food Festival. I’m so excited about this adventure—we’re going to have an amazing time!

Christmas Eve: A French Feast

Christmas Eve is always a big event for us. Nathan and I spent the day preparing a themed dinner for our families. This year’s theme was French, inspired by the elegant tradition of “Le Réveillon.”

Our family gathered around the table, beautifully set in the French formal style. Each place setting included a printed menu and a postcard from Santa. In France, every letter sent to Santa receives a reply, and I wanted to bring that charming tradition to our dinner.

Here’s a look at our menu, featuring five courses with wine pairings:

1. L’Apéro: Smoked Salmon and Crème Fraîche Blinis, Goat Cheese and Sour Cherry Blinis, served with a Christmas Ruby French 75 cocktail.
2. Potage: Silky Chestnut Soup.
3. Le Plat Principal: Duck à l’Orange Airelles, Maple Butternut Squash Purée, and Haricots Verts Amandine.
4. Fromage: A selection of French cheeses.
5. Le Dessert: Mulled Wine Pear Tarte Tatin.

The meal was a huge success—everything was delicious, and it felt so special to share this experience with our loved ones. Pictured at the table, starting on the left and going clockwise: Nathan’s family (Anita, Chris, and Dennis) and my family (Frank and Connie). Nathan, of course, was still hard at work in the kitchen when this photo was taken!

Christmas Day: Family Time

On Christmas day we started with bunch at my parents house and then dinner at Nathan’s parents. It was just a great and relaxing day with family. Pictured is Nathan opening a box if teas from Santa with his dad and brother looking on.

Final Thoughts

This Christmas week was filled with love, laughter, and delicious food. From our cozy traditions at home to the grand French dinner and quiet family moments, it was everything I could have hoped for. I’d love to hear how you celebrated your holidays—what made your week special?