After-Christmas Christmas Party

Ice and snow postponed the Maryland State DAR holiday party on two separate occasions, but the third try was the charm. Every year, I look forward to this party at the state chapter house in Roland Park in Baltimore.

Christmas trees and beautiful decorations inspire me to incorporate more traditional red tones in at least one room of my house.

The mantle is stunning.

I enjoyed some cranberry orange punch and tea sandwiches while I mixed and mingled with others.

Isn't the centerpiece lovely, too?

The "Grinches," made from grapes, bananas, strawberries, and a marshmallow, are a sweet and healthy alternative to cookies and pies.

The holiday party is a fundraiser to help maintain the chapter house. Each chapter brought a basket or item for the silent or live auction. Here are a few of my favorites:

Wizard of Oz...

and Sock Monkey...

I won an Alice in Wonderland theme basket in the live auction. The stunning Longaberger basket has a silver tea service set, antique tea cups and saucers, teas, scones, and other sweet treats. There's also a game of croquet in the basket and a bottle of champagne labeled "Drink Me." Yummy!