I had fun yesterday. One of the most exciting things? A small egg, laid by one of the chickens. Hopefully, it is the harbinger of things to come1

In the morning, we took a walk and went to pilates, where we had a good workout. After that, we went to Earth Fare and bought the things we needed for our dinner party. Even before we left home, I had begun to prepare. The pie crust was chilling in the fridge and I had sliced some onions and peppers.

After lunch (leftover Pasta Provencal), I browned the chicken pieces and cooked the peppers and onions. I started the potato soup as well. My Dad came and I had him peel and slice the apples for an apple pie. I rolled out the crust and put it in the pan. Ray went to feed the pigs and my Dad left.

Adam and Jennifer arrived a little after five. Ray had just finished showering and getting dressed and I ran upstairs to change my clothes. I like Jannifer right away. It was very cold out, but clear and still light. We put the chickens up for the night and Ray took them on a long walk. While the were gone, I took the pie out, pureed the soup and reheated it. I dusted and vacuumemd a little and finished clearing off the kitchen counter.

It was almost 6 when Lisa and Geoff arrived--actually early. She claimed they were so excited to have a night away from their children that they couldn't wait to get here. Both couples brought wine and we drank almost three bottles of it before the night was through, all pretty tasty. Lisa brought some chips and hummus, which were mediocre. I got out a few crackers and some cheese too. Ray built a fire and the house was warm and pleasant.

We served the soup (with homemade croutons) and it was wonderful. I served up the chicken with peppers and couscous, but it wasn't really done. Ray put his back immediately and I only at a couple bites of mine. No one mentioned it; some were able to eat more than others. I am so sad; I could have had it in the oven for hours if I had been concerned. This is a recipe I have only made once or twice before and I was doubling it, but it should have cooked. I wonder if my oven is misbehaving again.

The pie with ice cream was a big hit, although not as good as my Mom's, I have to say. It also boiled over onto the floor of the oven and made a mess that I need to clean up.

There was lots of good conversation and everyone had fun, just talking. But I feel a tiny bit old, telling stories from when I was in college and just married. We didn't have cell phones or computers...don't I sound like an old person? At 10, everyone left. It was bitter cold, in the 20s, and predicted to go down to 18, so Ray drained the solar water heater. We did some cleaning up, but there is a lot more to do. I really don't want to look at that uncooked chaicken leflt on all the plates!