Within the Jewish calendar, there are plenty of ways to mark time. These festivals, however, are-for the good-marked by synagogue activities, involvement of children, and some restrictions.
New Year's Eve presents a unique opportunity for adults to get together-sans children-as adults and just enjoy a real "dinner party."
For the past 3 years, we've had the good fortune to join our good friends, Mosh and Tamar Teitelbaum (special call out to Tamar's sister-Rachel-who I've heard is a loyal blog reader :-) for an elegant multi-course meal to ring in the new year with good friends and good conversation.
By investing so much effort in the WHOLE experience-way beyond the food-Mosh and Tamar have made a time within the calendar and raise it well above the mundane. This is not a simple affair.
The food preparations itself requires hours of labor-cured pastrami lox, Vichyssoise, main courses and desserts (all homemade). But on top of that, their attention to detail-tablecloths, lighting, napkin holders, and much more show how much they care about creating an environment conducive to relaxed, adult conversation.
It's a reminder that to have friends over for dinner is not a big deal (well, it's work), but to make a memorable, lasting impression that provides a unique experience...that requires going the extra mile.
New Year's Eve presents a unique opportunity for adults to get together-sans children-as adults and just enjoy a real "dinner party."
For the past 3 years, we've had the good fortune to join our good friends, Mosh and Tamar Teitelbaum (special call out to Tamar's sister-Rachel-who I've heard is a loyal blog reader :-) for an elegant multi-course meal to ring in the new year with good friends and good conversation.
By investing so much effort in the WHOLE experience-way beyond the food-Mosh and Tamar have made a time within the calendar and raise it well above the mundane. This is not a simple affair.
The food preparations itself requires hours of labor-cured pastrami lox, Vichyssoise, main courses and desserts (all homemade). But on top of that, their attention to detail-tablecloths, lighting, napkin holders, and much more show how much they care about creating an environment conducive to relaxed, adult conversation.
It's a reminder that to have friends over for dinner is not a big deal (well, it's work), but to make a memorable, lasting impression that provides a unique experience...that requires going the extra mile.