The families take turns hosting the dinner, but everyone brings part of the meal. They've become so close, and the tradition so familiar, that they know their way around each other's kitchens. At first, menus were simple. One Christmas Eve, Mary's husband, John, grilled steaks in sub-zero weather. Other menus have been built around prime rib and Yorkshire pudding, pork crown roast, standing rib roast or beef stroganoff.
Desserts truly are grand finales.
Favorites include a trifle with homemade custard and fresh raspberries or strawberries, Black Forest torte and cheesecake with cherries. The Joneses will host this year's gathering. After dinner, they will all open gifts. Group members draw names for a gift exchange. We're usually pretty giggly by that time.