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January 21

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It was about two-and-a-half weeks early, but Mark and Diane were here from Maine, so Cerwin treated us to a delicious meal at one of my favorite restaurants.

Left to right: Me, Cerwin, Roy, Deb, Jeff, Mark, Diane, Kristen and Jere. We think that the last time we were here for my birthday was five years ago when it was my 75th.

This was a delicious parsnip soup – a treat from the chef. It is called amuse-bouche (French) and described as a single, bite-sized “mouth amuser”. Amuse-Bouches are served to prepare the guest for the meal and to offer a glimpse of the chef’s style.

One of the things I like about John J Jeffries is that it is quieter than many others, and there are unique, mostly Lancaster County foods and treats.

We were served a variety of breads while waiting for appetizers.

Jere’s Brussels sprouts – which he kindly shared with a few of us.

Kristen had Cream of Mushroom Soup (above). Roy enjoyed Clam Chowder and Mark had Duck Liver Pate. Not many wanted to taste Mark’s liver. I did and it was quite delicious.

Cerwin and Jere enjoyed beef meatballs served with saffron risotto, tomato sauce, Romano cheese.

Some of us (including me) had their very delicious chicken with potato gratin, fig jam, bone broth reduction.

Most chose steak with mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables, bone broth reduction sauce, chimichurri.

I received a free dessert of my choice which on this evening was Crème Brulée. The others shared a variety of desserts.

A cell phone photo from Deb.

There is nothing better than spending an evening with our children.