Open House For Toys For Tots

Sunday was the annual Open House benefiting Toys For Tots at the always beautiful home of Jytte and Torben Klarland. I first wrote about this soiree in last year's post Scandinavian Holiday. The Klarland's Scandinavian heritage was, as always, beautifully evident throughout their home as was the festive holiday decor. Every year, the guests bring offerings for the Toys For Tots drive and by night's end, the Klarlands end up with loads of toys to donate to local charities.

This year, the occasion was no less fun but tinged with a little sadness as it may very well be the last one held in their stately home. The Klarlands are looking to move closer to their kids so if indeed they continue this annual event it will take place in another locale in the future. The party was also a little less colorful for me this year as the Klarlands had also sold off their beloved llamas in anticipation of the move. The llamas are pictured in last year's post.

All of the other elements were in place, though, from the intricate holiday flourishes to the impressive dessert table. Artisanal cheeses, meats and appetizers were abundant and the mulled wine and hot apple cider were flowing. That dessert table is most assuredly the centerpiece and the trick is choosing which ones from the overwhelming choices. I went with one of the staples...Black Forest Cake.

The party is always a great opportunity seeing friends such as Chris and Kylee Leatherman who would bring their beautiful baby for his Open House debut. Bob is one adorable child, even when he burst into tears after taking one look at me. Nothing says Happy Holidays like making a small child cry at a Christmas party. In defense of baby Bob, it could be that I was sporting a little bit of the crazy eyes from the sugar rush I was on from that dessert table.

The best part of this party for me will always be enjoying a bit of time with Torben and Jytte, two of the most personable and charming folks I know. The fact that once again, loads of toys were gathered for the Tots makes for an utterly joyous occasion for all.

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