It's been rare for me to approach a company Christmas party with something other than a sense of dread. I'm introverted by nature so, depending upon the people involved, it can take some energy on my part to be social. And the party's setting and activities can make it better or worse.
This year was completely different. Phillip Blanton was in charge of setting up the Falafel Software Christmas party for the group here in Colorado Springs....which means that he handed it off to his wife, Mary Ann.
And she hit a home run!
She booked us for a Madrigal Feast at Glen Eyrie castle. A short history of the castle is here.
From the start, the night was filled with song, food, and drink. The feast was hosted by the Lord and Lady of the Manor. They were attended by a number of people including a steward, the mistress of the manor, and a page who had a rather fun time introducing the courses. There were a large number of servants (most of them volunteers) who brought out the food and drink. Around 120 people (some staff, many volunteers) were involved in putting on the feast for 160 guests.
A group of madrigal singers encouraged us with song throughout the night.
The dinner consisted of several courses. The courses were accompanied by music and interspersed with a play and dance.
A group of wandering troubadours belted out a wonderful series of songs and cheesy jokes. They called themselves the "Fourbadours". They were one of my favorite parts of the night.
Here's a shot of the boar's head being presented to the Lord of the Manor. Did I mention the surprising chewiness of the boar's nose?
I don't have any good shots that capture the enormity of the hall. It was pretty darn big and captured the singers' voices well.
The best part was being able to spend this time with the Falafel guys in Colorado. They're all exceptional people and some of us have been through a lot together. Thanks, Lino, for footing the bill for that wonderful evening. Here's to your continued success in 2006!
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Sean Winstead
Tags: Life