The holidays are a wonderful time for entertaining, especially for your family. Traditions have been established over the years and they emphasize our sense of belonging and kinship. They may change and grow over time, but the heart of a tradition remains the same and everyone counts on that. Patti Jo Hermann and her family have been cutting their own Christmas trees for years. The tree cutting has evolved into a family event that is far more special than the tree itself.

This year Patti Jo allowed us to follow along with her family as they enjoyed a snowy day filled with sledding, snowballs, food and the selection of their favorite tree. We caravanned up north to Goldenman Christmas tree farm in Zimmerman, Minnesota. The snow field and trees couldn't have been a more beautiful scene for this family's gathering. The family's vehicles were parked close together and anyone with a tailgate opened it up to allow for a buffet of food and warm seating for cold family members.

The buffet came together quickly and beautifully with a simple menu of wild rice soup, breadsticks, hot cocoa, and Christmas cookies. It was perfectly suited for family members of all ages and warmed up the crowd after their snowy fun. The extra touches on the buffet like warm blankets and Christmas flowers made the family feel special and the family photos delightful. (This might be a good time to consider a family photo for your Christmas card.) Who better to bring out the special touches for than your family?

Recipe for a Special Family Day:

1. Local tree farm where you can cut your own tree

2. Warm outdoor clothes

3. Beloved family members

4. A simple and warm array of foods

Wild Rice Soup

2 T. butter
1 T. minced onion
¼ c. flour
4 c. chicken broth
2 c. cooked wild rice ½ tsp. salt
1 c. half and half
2 T. dry sherry
Minced parsley or chives

Melt butter in saucepan. Sauté onion until tender. Blend in flour; gradually add broth. Cook, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens slightly. Stir in rice and salt. Simmer for 5 minutes. Blend in half and half and sherry. Heat to serving temperature. Garnish with minced parsley or chives. Serves 6-7 (1 cup portions).

Variations: Add 1/3 c. minced ham or finely-grated carrots and 3 T. slivered almonds.

Pillsbury Breadsticks Bake according to directions, or brush with butter and sprinkle with parmesan cheese.

Williams Sonoma Cocoa Make according to directions and keep hot in a large thermos.

Caribou Handmade Marshmallows Available seasonally, just add to your cocoa, or they're great plain!

By Teri Bennett