Wesolych Swiat Bozego Narodzenia!

Or, as the Polish say, "Merry Christmas"!  

Today is all about the Polish tradition. (Well, this afternoon/evening).  The hubster and I got the house  ready for tomorrow (we host), got our workouts in, watched the Panthers Kitties WIN! and then headed out to start out traditional Polish Celebration.

The meal:  Cream of Mushroom Soup, Coleslaw, Pierogies, Tilapia, Root veggies, tater fries.  It all has to do with what foods used to be available in Poland during the winter, and in Catholic Tradition, is meat free.

First, we start with the Oplatek, or, blessed bread.  My cousin Karen (our matriarch!) says a prayer, and each person takes a piece and shares bits of it with other family members, wishing good blessings.
Then, we feast!

Post dinner, the tradition is....Christmas cookies!  But first, we must eat prunes.  Someone tells me it's tradition.  I'm not buying.  But it's fun to kid about who got more prunes and who will actually admit to being able to choke them down.  No prunes= no cookies.  It's the rule!

Then...the good stuff!!

Bellies full and hearts full of family love, we then head off to Midnight Mass at St. Stanislaus Kostka Church.  The service is a mix of English and Polish service, and is just beautiful.  Bedtime- 2a.m.  After all, Santa can't come if we aren't asleep!

Merry Christmas to you and your family!