Tradition (What's Baking?)

This time of year brings many traditions for many people.  For me, one of my favorites is the annual Leftovers Party.

It takes place on the day after Thanksgiving, bringing our close knit group of friends together.  Some of us only see each other a few times a year, while others are able to get together more often, so this constant is something that we cherish and rely on.  Jason is always a gracious host...creating an ambiance that's always loved and appreciated.

After opening some wine, and noshing on an array of expensive cheeses and other delicious apps, everyone crowds around the tables to read the place cards that Jason writes to designate seats.  What makes these special, though, are the fact that they don't have names on them.  They tell each person why he is thankful for him/her.

Once everyone finds their place, we chow down on all the leftovers brought by each person from the day before.  The past few years have become more "civilized" with hired help and warming trays, as opposed to all of us crowding around an oven and a microwave when we first started this tradition 11 years ago.

And after we eat, we make our way around all the tables (which include about 30 people), read our cards to the group, and then tell what we're most thankful for that year.  These mini-speeches induce much laughter, as well as some tears.

And through it all, the drinks are flowing.  This year, our newest member brought something new and different to the table (literally!)...jello shots.  Seeing as the majority of us went to college together, where these were a common indulgence, they were very well received.

Then, dessert is...ummm...served.  My key lime pie is a staple and made especially for this party, since it's a long time favorite with this bunch.  And it never makes the dessert table.

One of my leftover contributions this year was these wonderful, light, delicious biscuits.  I only had a few dishes to make for this year's Thanksgiving dinner but still wanted to keep it simple.  These definitely fit the bill!

These also happened to fit the requirement for this month's What's Baking challenge.  Jessica from The Jey of Cooking asked that we bake something savory for November.  Can't wait to see what the other ladies came up with!

I highly encourage all of you to come up with your own version of a Leftovers Party.  I know some have a "Friends-giving" celebration before the actual turkey day, which is a nice idea, too.  The bottom line is - make time for those you love and don't see often.  Traditions produce memories, which are wonderful and priceless :)

Buttermilk-Thyme Drop Biscuits
from Martha Stewart

2 cups AP flour
1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves (or 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves)
1 tablespoon baking powder
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1 cup buttermilk

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.  Combine flour, thyme, baking powder, salt and baking soda in a large bowl.  Using a fork or your fingers, incorporate butter into dry mixture until it resembles coarse meal.

Mix in buttermilk until dough becomes sticky (add another tablespoon or so of buttermilk if needed).  Drop dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment (about 1/3 cup) and lightly pat tops to flatten slightly.

Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown, rotating halfway through.  Transfer to wire rack to cool for a few minutes.  Serve warm.

Makes 8 biscuits.