Oz Day

Happy Australia Day! Not sure what I'm talking about? I explained it more last year, or three years ago, when we were actually in the land down under. I really can't believe it was three years ago. Wow.

This year we celebrated this day of Oz by eating meat pies with our family. I used the same meat pie recipe from last year but decided to go with the surfer dude instead of Australia's flag decorative top. It took far less time and was equally delicious ;). Buttermilk mashed potatoes, salad and homemade bread rounded out our meal.

And I even decided to tackle Pavlova this year. Never heard of it? It's a meringue-like dessert with whipped cream and berries. It's one of the only truly Australian desserts. I have to say, the process of making it kind of intimidated me in the past. But it was way easier than I thought it would be (thanks to the Barefoot Contessa). Too bad Australia day falls in the middle of winter here. Berries are definitely not in season. I think each blueberry cost about a quarter. But it was worth it!

The girls even ate a bit of the Australian deliciousness this year. And of course they enjoyed the opportunity to play together and be with family. Here are a few pictures of our gathering...

The good news is it's not too late. Today is the official day, actually. We just had to celebrate yesterday because of a commitment we had tonight. So go buy some puff pastry and whip up a little meat pie in honor of the land down under!