New England variation is perfect for a party, because you can make
it early in the day and just slip it into the oven when people arrive.”
While the pies cook, Reynolds and Casey entertain their guests
with drinks and hors d’oeuvres in the upstairs double parlors, which
are filled with antiques and art inherited or collected by them. Holiday
decorating is minimal — “We just don’t have much time for that,”
says Casey — which doesn’t mean they don’t have fun. They haul
out the collection of carved wooden angels Reynolds’s mother bought
years ago in Germany and hang them in the windows. On the fireplace, more angels, these found in Florence, Italy, by Reynolds and
an antique sterling silver tray on the Steinway grand piano in the front parlor holds the fixings for the raspberry-and-champagne cocktails. Casey plays for guests before dinner, which is served in the dining room downstairs.
Casey, cavort across the mantel. Fresh pine and holly, calla lilies,
amaryllis, and roses, and a bit of plaid ribbon and bows round out
the Christmas decor.
As guests arrive, Reynolds and Casey greet them with a hug and
a sparkling cocktail. In the front parlor, a well-used Steinway grand
piano stands at the ready. Casey is always willing to play and someone is always willing to sing.
The Boston Gay Men’s Chorus concert series “Hallelujah!” is
December 9 at 3 p.m. and December 14, 15, and 17 at 8 p.m. at Jordan
Hall, 30 Gainsborough Street, Boston.
bgmc.org.
