We walked through our woods, scouting for the perfect, wild holiday tree. We dropped the notion of what a beautiful tree should look like, all pruned, full and shapely, and instead, we embraced the wild, imperfect, spindly qualities of the trees growing naturally in the forest. As we searched in the wood just outside our door, we could see our home, lit from within, all warm and welcoming, the smoke twirling out the top of the chimney.
We all had feelings of anticipation -- looking forward to decorating the tree, singing carols, while nibbling on some snacks I had simmering on the stove -- spicy meatballs and a pot of hot rum punch (sans alcohol for the kiddos). Good old-fashioned Christmas preparations! For real? For real. My dear cousin would jokingly call this a New England wet dream -- i hope i do not offend in saying that, but he is absolutely correct:) -- gotta love him. LOL.
oh, and yes, we found the perfect tree...
recipes:
Spicy Meatballs
1.5 lbs. ground beef
1 c. bread crumbs
3 eggs, beaten
6-oz. jar chili sauce
1 c. sauerkraut
1 c. cranberry sauce (I used actual cranberries instead)
1 c. brown sugar (I prefer dark brown for a richer flavor)
Form meatballs with first three ingredients. Bake on greased cookie sheet at 350 F until browned. Combine remaining ingredients to form a sauce. Place meatballs in large skillet and pour sauce on top. Simmer on stove for 1 1/2 hours. Serve warm with a bowl of hot rum punch close by.
Hot Rum Punch
2 c. regular brewed tea
1 c. apple juice
1 c. orange juice
1 c. pineapple juice
1 doz. whole cloves
1 stick cinnamon
2 tbsp. sugar (optional)
1 c. rum
In a saucepan, heat all ingredients except rum. Remove from heat and add rum. Serve hot.
*recipes taken from Coming Home for Christmas Cookbook by Patricia B. Mitchell*
