Joanne is behind the bar and as if on cue guests arrive. The festive season has come early. It's not unusual for dinner to be served with family and guests or with me eating at friends' adds Bev ushering in her guests. The children want us to take the pictures and include them. As Joanne settles with a glass of red wine I taste the sangria and immediately decide on another.
Plates are now full and nods of approval assures the family that both taste and tradition continue.
Although the chili is decidely moreish we leave space for coffee and cream filled wafers, cool pineapple slices and Camembert. One can well imagine Christmas Eve with many staying over for Bev's Christmas breakfast. Combine all ingredients and bake at 400 F for 15-20 minutes. Red wine is a favourite in this house, so says Bev, we pour a little over many more things. Let stand for 10 minutes to cool.