Um, you know what's wrong with this party pic? Yes, you guessed it...no one is in it! Lonely looking party, huh? Ack, I forgot to take pictures of all my lovely neighbors while they were here - too busy chatting, drinking wine, and eating the tasty tasties everyone brought - so, uh, here's the after-party. Damn! Well, it sure was fun. Especially cool to catch up on good news from across the street. And actually meet my neighbor Lindsay, who I've traded lots of foodie emails with. And to have Amy and Kathy here, the daughters of the couple who built this house. We love living in our house and very much appreciate the care and thought and creativity that went into building it, and we love knowing about the circumstances under which it was built. Most people never get to know, unless of course they build the house themselves.

The potluck spread of appetizers and desserts was impressive - and of course delicious! In particular, Gretchen's blue-cheese walnut spread (great for a Thanksgiving appetizer!), and Lindsay's dipped gingersnaps (perfect Christmas cookies!), were downright addictive. (Both ladies graciously shared their recipes, which are in comments, below.)

Ah, I had a great time getting ready for everyone to come over. I need a good party to kick my butt into gear, get rid of stacks of papers, etc. Oh, don't get me wrong, there are still plenty of stacks around. But they are diminshed, and to me look different and better, so it's all good.

It's. All. Good.

'Night!