perfecting the "done before they arrive" party- a work in progress
Santa thought my hubby could use diversion so he brought him a backgammon board down our desert chimney. While my husband didn’t seem overly amused with the prospects the big guy in red was confident he’d be up to the challenge. And as luck would have it the hostess from our game night just shared her recipe for those unexpectedly light and
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perfecting the "done before they arrive" party- a work in progress
As for many with adult children our holidays are looking more like a sprawl. This year we must divide and conquer. All this entertaining demands that memorable meals come together with a minimum of last minute effort. For selfishly I want to be with those I love, not tied to my overused stove. Here’s the first of our three “Christmas” dinners.
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what to bring
Some nights are sure to sparkle and last weekend my husband and I were fortunate to be included in such an evening. Our host and hostess had coolers of oysters shipped in and as these pearly beauties lay open in their newly shucked half shells flights of champagne were passed in a myriad of flutes. A truly special time where the company rivaled the
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what to bring
Tis the season to share with those you care. And what better way than with a homemade token of your appreciation? I find sweets are best delivered in small packages. Here is a rich indulgence that’s guaranteed to delight, super dark and slightly salty. The best thing- you can whip up a batch in less than 15 minutes. The key here is to use top shelf
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food detective
Good friends invited us over for “game night”. I squashed my inner reluctance, being a party game novice, and said we’d love to. When my husband asked what were doing Friday night he was thrilled with where we were going but baulked at the evening’s scheduled activities. I tried to sound optimistic when he put down his foot, literally. I was a bit
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Wherever I find myself, I’m happiest with a full dining room table. As a former professional chef and caterer I want to share what I’ve learned over the past three decades of entertaining. On this site you’ll find tricks of the trade to help even the most harried of you pull off a seemingly seamless fête. Come join the conversation!