back to school

As an empty nester it’s an odd thing to be waiting behind a school bus. The first thing that comes to my mind is where has the time gone. Then if it’s a particularly long delay with seemingly first-time parents saying good-bye to their little ones I usually get a bit misty-eyed and nostalgic.

How many back-to-school-eves have I helped my daughters organize their school supplies, put their new sneakers in their gym bags, and most importantly helped them lay out their first-day-of-school outfits?

New school years herald fresh starts. In many ways entertaining offers the same. I’ve often said that if you want a new life throw a dinner party. Think about it- as host or hostess you are in charge of the guest list, the menu, the seating. Anything is possible and you want to make sure you put your best face forward. Here’s where we can all learn a thing or two from a kindergartener.

Very few preschoolers can dress themselves appropriately when faced with an extreme deadline. The same holds true for those who entertain. You may think this is silly, but how many times has fashion drama whipped you into a frenzy, ruining your mood, along with your carefully prepared timeline moments before your guests were to arrive?

Next time layout your complete outfit a good twenty-four hours before that doorbell rings. That way you will be sure to put your best self forward, face and all. Because who really wants to go to Harried Harriet’s for dinner?

And now how about a fresh take on an old-school favorite. Here are my deviled cheese bites.

Cut an asiago breadstick into ¼ inch slices.

Lightly toast in a toaster. Let cool and set aside.

Grate four ounces of sharp cheddar cheese.

Chop enough dill pickles to measure a quarter cup.

Combine the cheddar, chopped pickles, two tablespoons of mayonnaise, and a quarter cup of diced pimientos in a medium bowl.

Season with salt and hot sauce.

Give a big stir. Cover and refrigerate. The cheese mixture can be made several days ahead of time.

Right before serving, preheat the broiler.  Spread the cheese mixture on the bread rounds.

Place on the baking sheet covered with heavy-duty foil. Broil until melted and lightly browned, about 4 minutes.

You’re going to want to get on the bus with this one.