Family & Friends Gala

Every year the March of Dimes here in Tulsa hosts two signature events. The first event being March for Babies in April, the second, Gourmet Gala in October. This past Saturday was this year's Gourmet Gala, the 20th Anniversary, no less. Unfortunately, we weren't able to attend. But, instead of wallowing in self pity, we decided to turn our family dinner celebrating the visit of family member from out of town into our very own Gourmet Gala, Patton style!

So, Saturday morning, my sister-in-law, Kimberly, my mother-in-law, Janet, and I began cooking. And, oh did we cook! We wanted to observe the general set-up of the Gala, which includes a myriad of restaurants that come to serve one of their signature dishes. That evening you don't have a meal, per se, but a taste of what can be expected at the various restaurants that attend. So, we went for variety. Here's the menu:

• Potato Skins
• Chicken & Artichoke Dip
• Spinach Dip in Pumpernickel bread
• Chicken Wings
• Mock Champagne Punch
• Homemade Rolls
• Three Bean Salad
• Jell-O Pretzel Salad
• Brisket
• Turkey Sliders
• Chicken Stuffed Shells
• Corn Chowder
• Cinnamon Glazed Carrots
• Sweet Potato Casserole
• Luscious Four Layer Pumpkin Cake
• German Chocolate Cake
• Oreo Cookie Dessert
• Banana Cream Supreme

Needless to say, no one wanted for food. After a long day's work, we were proud of the spread we laid out. That evening, we enjoyed the fellowship of family and those friends closest to us that we call them family as well, celebrating the friendships we have and the success we've found as a family team for the March of Dimes. And, most importantly, we recognized, as the girls ran around with their friend, Grace, playing and laughing, how lucky we are that the girls are here today.

Keke & Lolo

Mollie & Scuba

Mike & Linda

Julius & Kimberly

Jack & Mike

Grace

The Cooks: Kimberly, Janet, & Me

Jeff's partner, Drew, and his wife, Mindi

The men, gathered round the food

Maddie & Nana

Julie & Grace

Frank, Julie, & Grace