We left Brockville and headed to North Gower for the holidays, spending it at my parents' house where much of our family gathered to celebrate. We were happy that my sister and her husband were able to come down from Toronto as well as my aunt, uncle and cousin from Norwood (near Peterborough). A special treat was spending Christmas Day with my grandparents there as well. It was a full house and my mother's famous turkey dinner didn't disappoint. I know everyone raves about their mother's cooking but trust me- if you haven't had "Dot's" turkey dinner, with all the trimmings, you haven't lived! My spouse's family is from the wonderful West Coast and we had a skype date with them on Boxing Day so they were able to see the kids open some of thier presents as well. It's always a lot of smiles and laughs when trying to coordinate two children to behave and cooperate for skype, thankfully my in-laws are fantastic and enjoy just seeing our faces! As always, everyone was spoiled but I think we would all agree, the real gift was just being together.
During the hustle and bustle of the holidays some of my favorite ladies were home to celebrate and we were able to get together for dinner. In keeping with my self-promise to stay as local as possible we chose the Georgian Dragon on King Street in downtown Brockville. I had eaten breakfast there once before and was excited to try their dinner menu. The ambiance was pub style and relaxed. When we arrived at 6:00 pm it was busy but not crowded and we didn't wait for a table. We were greeted almost immediately and drink orders were taken. The menu was versatile and also hosted the classic British pub fare. On our plates were fish and chips, philly cheese steak and mashed potatoes, yorkshire pudding and a traditional clubhouse and fries. With only a minor hiccup ( a spot on my friend's teacup, that was immediately replaced) we were pleased with our dining experience. The food came fast and the service was friendly. As we ate and talked, the restaurant filled up. It became quite clear that this was one of Brockville's favorite get together spots. There were many items on the menu that I still want to try, a good excuse to go back.
New Year's was quiet, as we were all sick but once the kids settled into bed, my spouse and I made some hors doeuvres and snuggled in to ring in the new year. It has been a while since I've been able to stay up until midnight, but this time I made it, however just by an inch! It was the best New Years kiss I've ever had, if only a peck on my lips as I had a sinus cold. It was our first New Years as a family and although we were all sick, asleep or almost there- it was the best one I've ever had.
From my family to yours, Happy New Year. We hope 2012 brings you much happines - and what better way to start then to get out in our fabulous community and spend time with friends and family.
Sounds like a fab holiday :)
ReplyDelete