Claire
Master Chef
I asked earlier who was planning what for a party this season (now I cannot even find the question!!). Now I'm asking everyone what you did or did not do, what worked and what was a waste, and what was a disaster.
Last night I had about 30 people over.
I throw basically the same party every year (for those who didn't read my first post), a tree trimming party where everyone brings something for charity. Sometimes it's a cozy group of a half dozen, sometimes it's 50 (depends on where I live and how long I've lived there). I'm amazed at how what people eat and drink can change from year to year, even if it is the same people.
This year, what worked: Hubby's great egg nog, a gallon and a half made with really good Bacardi and nutmeg grated on the spot. We live in dairy country, and people love their milk around here. Cheese, crackers, Cincinatti chili
What didn't go: anything seafood. Shrimp cocktail, salmon, and caviar sat there
Could have been a disaster: Husband warned the parents of a 2-year old boy that our little dogs are old and grumpy. Dog did not bite him, but did snap after being messed with a bit. Thank heaven parents mildly said, "we told you no, now you know to leave the dog alone."
All in all, the party was a huge success. My tree is 3/4 trimmed, my neighbors all love me and me them. The only people who didn't come are very sick. Some who weren't going to come because of holiday depression came and left with a smile and full tummy. I have enough food to bring to the bank to feed a family of four for a week or so. All's well.
Tell me about your holiday party successes and failures!
Last night I had about 30 people over.
I throw basically the same party every year (for those who didn't read my first post), a tree trimming party where everyone brings something for charity. Sometimes it's a cozy group of a half dozen, sometimes it's 50 (depends on where I live and how long I've lived there). I'm amazed at how what people eat and drink can change from year to year, even if it is the same people.
This year, what worked: Hubby's great egg nog, a gallon and a half made with really good Bacardi and nutmeg grated on the spot. We live in dairy country, and people love their milk around here. Cheese, crackers, Cincinatti chili
What didn't go: anything seafood. Shrimp cocktail, salmon, and caviar sat there
Could have been a disaster: Husband warned the parents of a 2-year old boy that our little dogs are old and grumpy. Dog did not bite him, but did snap after being messed with a bit. Thank heaven parents mildly said, "we told you no, now you know to leave the dog alone."
All in all, the party was a huge success. My tree is 3/4 trimmed, my neighbors all love me and me them. The only people who didn't come are very sick. Some who weren't going to come because of holiday depression came and left with a smile and full tummy. I have enough food to bring to the bank to feed a family of four for a week or so. All's well.
Tell me about your holiday party successes and failures!