Bastille Day 2008

Paul & JoAnna, Your Hosts

I think it's safe to say, that for JoAnna and me, our year begins and ends on the day we host our annual Bastille Day party. It has become the centerpiece of our lives, an event that captures our focus for many hours before and after. And the "during" never seems to last long enough. But what fun! We just wish we had a bigger yard and more Nescos! (And less mosquitoes, as far as this year is concerned.)

JoAnna & Cindy (sisters, cooks & bakers extraordinaire)

Each year I promise myself to take more pictures of the festivities, and each year I neglect to follow through. This year I didn't keep my camera with me. All we have to share pictorally are a few preliminary views, such as the 2009 invitation picture that introduces this post.

Grandpa Richard & Eddie, Your Bartenders

One look at the ears and you know they're related.

Overheard comment: "Does Eddie realize how cute he is?"

JoAnna's Dad, "Uncle" John Dickert, JoAnna, Teresa Dickert

John and JoAnna worked together as legislative aides for Jeannette Bell in the late 1980s. In one of those weird office coincidences, they share the same birthday: December 6, 1962. (John and Teresa, early arrivals, were on their way to her 20th Madison West High School reunion.)

Not to Mention the Food

THE MENU

Hors D'Ouerves: Black Olive Tapenade, Chunky Green Olive Pistou Tapenade, Crawfish Boulettes, Crawfish Turnovers, Crudites of Asparagus and Haricots Verts, Goat Cheese Truffles, Mini Zucchini and Goat Cheese Tarts, Olive and Roasted Bell Pepper Tartines, Toasted Salted Almonds

Salads/Sides: Green Bean, Mushroom and Hazelnut Salad, Grated Carrot Salad with Lemon, Beets and Walnuts with Walnut Oil Dressing, Trboule Provencal, Potato Grain with Goat Cheese and Garlic

Entrees: Andouille and Chicken Jambalaya, Cajun Brisket, Cajun Sausage Bread, Cajun Shrimp

Desserts: Chocolate Souffles, Creme Brulee, Financiers aux Noisettes, Hazelnut Gateau Breton, Heart-shaped Shortbread Flavored with Cayenne, Honey Date and Pecan Tart, Mon Gateau au Chocolat, Mountain Honey Ginger Snaps, Pecan Nougats, Red Wine and Pear Brioche Tart

Now it can be told! We do have time to relax beforehand.