Progressive Brunch and Favorite Things

On Tuesday my friends and I had a Progressive Brunch.  Nancy had the idea so we could see everyone's house decorated for Christmas.  Plus, we just like to have girlfriend days. We started with stuffed mushrooms and turkey salad finger sandwiches at her house. She decorates with a Woodland theme. 

 This cute owl from Pottery Barn watches over the comings and goings.

 Nancy decorated this birdcage with cardinals, a little house and frosty greens for Christmas.

 Her mother made this felt banner years ago.  It has a lot of detail and I love it's vintage vibe.

I forgot my good camera, so my iPhone had to do.  Sorry for the fuzzy photos.

Nancy's really good with her garden.  Here her Christmas Cactus is going to town! 

It's just beautiful!

Then on to Kathy's house for Spinach Salad with craisins, pear, sugared walnuts and blue cheese. Nancy loved to pet Grace, Kathy's Persian kitty. I swear Grace's eyes match Nancy's sweater.

 Kathy's beautiful tree is covered in Nativity ornaments.

 Kathy set the table with each of us receiving a monogramed stocking as place cards.

 She has an extensive collection of vintage and new santa mugs.  She has been collecting them for 30 years. This is just a part of one shelf.

We skipped Renee's house since we're all attending a Christmas party there on Saturday. Next was my house for Chocolate Covered Cherry cookies and hot tea for dessert and gift exchange.  We gave each person our favorite thing. We kept it to a $10 price limit. It was an idea I saw on The Nesting Place.  We really enjoyed the idea. I received dark chocolate mint Lindor Chocolate Truffles (dark chocolate is healthy), some soft Aloe infused bootie socks and some Totally Awesome spot remover.  I gave some wonderful lemon and lavender lip balm from Temecula Lavender Company.  I've already got three more ideas for future favorite things gifts.  We loved our new tradition. What fun girlfriend tradition do you enjoy?

Joining Melissa's Linky Party at The Inspired Room.