An Afternoon Spread to Remember

Many of us wait for the big things in life - weddings, school dances, new jobs, or moving to feel the excitement. This past year taught me so much about learning to appreciate everyday moments. Last weekend my daughter and I decided to do just that. We decided to have a spread like none other to celebrate absolutely nothing. Grabbing a variety of non-dairy cheeses, gluten-free crackers, dark sea salt caramel chocolates, fruits and olives paired with the most delicious sparkling cider and non-alcoholic wine to create the best snack ever (those were her words).

I pulled out of the best serving pieces like my heirloom china passed down from my grandmother and beautiful wine goblets that reflected rainbows as the sun lowered through the window. We sat there fully immersed in the warm afternoon sunbeams bouncing on each surface. We got dolled up in our favorite dresses and decided that we would enjoy every sip and savor every moment. Who knows when we would have the time to do this again? I believe gratitude is being able to live the every day moments to their fullest.

I’ve shared about my journey with anxiety and how I came to the decision to no longer drink alcohol, however, I have not shared that I still have an affinity for wine. Did you know there is a variety of award-winning de-alcoholized wines? Yep! Codorniu makes a delicious rose, Ariel Vineyards has my favorite cabernet sauvignon and Fre has a variety you can pick up at local grocery stores. I love being able to sip a glass without the negative effects of alcohol. Hello, no hangover! I oftentimes bring a bottle to a gathering if I know others will be indulging in cocktails and don’t want to be left out. All the joy and none of the after-effects that alcoholic beverages contain. I will be including a round-up of some of my favorite mocktails you can order or make at home in an upcoming post!