With all the stress of my trip and morning, I had completely forgot that today was my company’s annual holiday party!
This year all the employees were treated to lunch at a local Italian restaurant called Antonio’s. I had never been, but had heard good things.
The powers that be had reserved a private room and we were presented with a select menu to order from.
The meal began with a wonderful basket of bread.
The bread had a very distinct flavor that I could not put my finger on. It had a wonderful crusty shell and a doughy center. If I ever return I could easily have a meal of just this bread. 
The salad was beautiful presented, but a little boring for my taste. I mean how boring is a bed of greens with a balsamic vinaigrette? Everyone agreed it needed a tomato, almond sliver, red onion, or something.
Unfortunately the select menu was very limiting and none of the choices really stood out to me. I had a nice conversation with the waiter and together we designed my own lunch that combined a couple of elements that were on the menu.
A single eggplant slice that had been lightly fried and rolled with cheese and marinara sauce.
Veggies (that were supposed to be steamed) and roasted vegetables.
I think next time I would just order the vegetables, a side of marinara sauce, and combine. I am such a picky eater and always have a hard time finding things to eat at Italian restaurants. Why does every Italian dish have to incorporate pasta?
Instead of consuming dessert at Antonio’s the gang all headed back to the office where a potluck dessert were waiting for us to enjoy.
I had planned on bringing something, but was way to worn out to even attempt to bake anything last night. There was still plenty of desserts – as I knew there would be – so I didn’t feel bad.
I had a bite of everything that looked the best.
My favorites were the bites of the cinnamon cookie and the chocolate cake.
While we were enjoying dessert and office putt-putt competition was happening.
The goal was to hit the ball as close to the taped box as possible.
I came within 8 inches of the tape! That was pretty good!!
But, not good enough. Brian took home the prize – a one night stay at a local Sheraton.
Congrats Brian!
Next – Presents!!
Each participating co-worker was asked to bring a $20 or less gift.
See the Publix wine bag out front? That was mine! I picked up a bottle of red and white on the way back from lunch. 
Each person that brought a gift then drew a number from a cup. Once your number was called you could choose a present under the tree or you can steal a present that had already been unwrapped.
I got the best number of them all – #1!!
This meant I had the first and last pick of gifts. Woop Woop!
Gift #1: Electric Wine Opener
I didn’t even have it 5 minutes before someone stole it!
Gift #2: Wine Basket
Again – gone in a matter of minutes! Everyone really liked what I was opening.
I ended up with a $15 Itunes Gift Card and a Scratch Off.
Due to a 3 steal limit on gifts, I didn’t have to worry about anyone taking this from me.
The party came to a slow end and the rest of our afternoon was left to our own leisure. My office can have its moments of high stress, but I really appreciates the company’s devotion to constantly improving employee morale. Its days like today that make me happy to work for a small, close knit company.
When dinner time rolled around this evening I wasn’t craving anytime in particular, but I did have some salmon that needed to be baked.
I went with simple and coated the salmon with a apricot mustard sauce and flax before baking at 415 for 15 minutes.
A few rutabaga fries found their way in the oven alongside the salmon.
I have the worst sweet tooth at night. Despite having my fill of desserts this afternoon it was begging for more sweets! I obliged with some cherries and a piece of chocolate.
I was so happy to see cherrie for sale at Publix yesterday. Love them!
Tomorrow I will be working from home and need to fit some christmas shopping in at one point. I have bought NOTHING!
Anyone have any ideas what to get Kelly? Or how about my 20 year old little brother? Anyone?
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