Christmas in July, Sydney (5 July 2014)

Winter feasting with friends

Thanks to my friends Chris and Fintan for putting on a yummy Christmas in July aka #FinChrisMas2014 with roast chicken, lamb and all the trimmings. Fintan even made some Irish Soda Bread which was very impressive. Complete with cute Christmas decorations and a punch fountain with free flowing 'Dog on the Beach' dogtail cocktail quickly put everyone in the festive spirit. I scored myself a cheese container in the Kris Kringle and took a few bauble selfies as you do. Next year I think it might be my turn to host so if you have any great festive recipes to share please let me know. I'm thinking a turducken might be the go?

SNAPSHOT REVIEW:

PROS: Festive cheer to keep you warm in the colder weather

CONS: We don't get snow in Sydney

MUST TRY: Dog on the Beach dogtail

VERDICT: Lots of fun with good friends, yummy food and wicked drinks is always a good way to forget about the Winter chills

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It's not a real party unless you have a punch fountain

'Dog on the Beach' dogtail hehe

Care for some homemade Irish Soda Bread — yes please!

Entree is served

Roast chicken — I always go for a drumstick

Golden roast potatoes 

Baked parsnip and carrots

Green beans 

Stuffing

Roast lamb 

Gravy time

Dinner is served

Cheesecake for dessert 

Charlie and Arthur looking for some foodie action

Kris Kringle time

Photobombed by Arthur 

Ahh the sneaky double wrapped present

Cheesy smile for a cheesy kris kringle

Bauble selfie

Christmas in July on Bastille Day, Sydney (14 July 2012)

Somewhere in Surry Hills NSW 2010

Christmas cheers in July

A good Christmas in July always includes a plentiful supply of drinks, delicious food and fun company and this dinner was no exception. There was also a running youtube video of a log fire crackling in the background, a delightful Christmas tree, Christmas crackers and Kris Kringle gifts ($15 limit). I was very happy with the Cadbury Favourites I ended up with. We enjoyed mulled wine, turkey roll with sour cherry relish and a super moist Christmas pudding complete with vanilla ice cream and custard. Thanks to our hosts for a wonderful night — you've outdone yourselves yet again.

SNAPSHOT REVIEW:

PROS: Fun times with friends, Surprise of Kris Kringle presents, Fine wines and delicious food

CONS: I wish I had a beautiful Christmas tree like this at home

MUST TRY: Segura Viudas, Henkell Trocken, Not eating my Kris Kringle gift of Cadbury favourites too quickly

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I simply love this Christmas tree and cute decorations
SIMON FAVOURITE :-)

Pierré getting into the Christmas cheer

Mulled wine — great way to warm up the body

3 hour log fire youtube video — strangely makes the room feel warmer

Kitchen in full swing

Henkell Trocken

SIMON FAVOURITE :-)

Veuve Clicquot

Wairau River Sauvignon Blanc 2011

Segura Viudas
SIMON FAVOURITE :-)

Nigl Gärtling Grüner Veltliner

Turkey roll via Stephanie Alexander recipe — tender and lots of flavour

Roast turkey and vegetables

Pudding flambé
SIMON FAVOURITE :-)

Pudding so moist and tasty

Match made in heaven: vanilla ice cream with warm pudding

Cracking good time

Cracker gift

My Kris Kringle gift

Pierré looking a little overwhelmed by the festivities