And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling savor. Eph 5:2
With empty stomachs, eager palates and a readiness to make a joyful noise unto the Lord, many entered into the basement dining hall of Olivet on the evening of December 6th. The December potluck is a special tradition at Olivet. We always gather after dinner and sing Christmas carols loudly, joyfully and occasionally somewhat off-key. This evening was no exception. To further our festive moods, Linda and her little helpers had the dining hall decorated with boughs of evergreen and red taper candles.
Basically every one who came through the doors had a wonderful dish in hand. Here is a sampling of the bounty that was offered this wonderful evening of fellowship. There was a wonderful selection of ham. Debra and Michael offered a platter of their own farm raised ham garnished with fresh pineapple. It was complimented with a lamb platter served with hummus and a cucumber yogurt sauce brought by Debra Kinney. Debra also made a huge platter of pesto tortellini and a beautiful colorful tossed vegetable salad. Her garlic bread is always so delicious. Linda brought her ever popular pimento cheese spread stuffed into celery sticks as well her super secret Costco recipe lasagna! We also enjoyed Gloria’s quiche bites, more ham, some meatballs and a delectable shepherd’s pie from Carol’s kitchen. A big pan of sausage cornbread along with a relish tray rounded out the various offerings on the groaning board.
It did not go unnoticed that the dessert table was just a little too barren for comfort! Fortunately Mary had brought a big cheesecake covered with cherry sauce. There were some wonderful Christmas cookies available for nibbling as well.
With all this wonderful food and company we did not get too sidetracked for our traditional December celebration. Diane Coon was gracious enough to play the piano as we all enjoyed singing several rounds of all time favorite Christmas carols. We sang Joy to The World, Noel, Deck the Halls, O Little Town of Bethlehem, We Three Kings and so forth. Near the end there was a gallant attempt to sing the entire 12 Days of Christmas. Well, maybe next year we will get through all those verses.
See you around the groaning board next time in 2010. God Bless You one and all.
