Sweetpea Lifestyle

Day 25: Thai Chicken Burger Recipe

2013-05-25T09:24:00.000-04:00

Happy Memorial Day Weekend!!!

This chicken burger recipe is one of my most viewed recipes. Seems fitting for this National Burger Month. On this 25th day of 31 Days to Successful Entertaining, I wish you & yours a wonderful weekend.

I am so thankful for these four boys (and ALL my Haw Creek Boys!), and their service they give to our country.

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My last name is Berger - the jokes that have ensued for my 25 years of life are never ending.... Feel free to come up with a couple that we haven't heard before!

Yes, we love burgers, just in case you were wondering!

To tell you the truth, I have never made a chicken burger. Nor have I played with ground chicken... It looks even more gross than raw chicken.... But! I was determined.

And, it wasn't that bad! It was like making meatloaf, with chicken. And, it was a quick process - under 30 minutes!

Thai Chicken Burgers

Ingredients:

1 pound ground Chicken Breast

2 T Thai Chili Sauce

2 T (homemade) Dale's Seasoning

1 T Chopped Scallions

1/4 cup Cooked Quinoa - you could use bread crumbs, but I am staying away from gluten for Lent!

Salt & Pepper, to taste

Combine all ingredients together in bowl - it was very gloopy... So, not to worry! Score the meat with your hand into four sections, and make those sections into burger patties. Place on a plate. You could go directly into a pan now, but since I made these in the morning, I covered them with plastic wrap and let them hang out in the fridge for a few hours. (I think this helped them "set up" and become not gloopy.)

Add 1 spoonful of Coconut Oil to a cast iron skillet. When it is hot, add your burgers. Cook thoroughly - remember, this is chicken and not beef! No pink. No pink. No pink!

I covered mine with a lid and flipped after about 5 minutes. It will depend on the thickness of your patty - so I can't tell you an exact time... Sorry! When you press the middle of the burger, if it is firm, it's done. If not, cover and cook a little longer!

I served mine with caramelized onions a top. It was wonderful! You can find my tutorial for making the onions HERE.

This makes an easy, healthy Paleo dinner. Would be great with roasted sweet potatoes or brussel sprouts!

Enjoy your weekend, Sweet Friends!

Day 24: Fashion Finds, For Every Occasion

2013-05-24T06:30:00.000-04:00

Woo hoo! Here we are. Day 24. And, one of my favorite topics: Just what do you wear when hosting a fabulous soireé?? I've got you covered. Below are four options for four different occasions. However, they can be worn to several different functions.

Let's get started...

1. The Casual Dinner Affair

- this is perfect for a casual dinner with close friends.
- great for BBQs and clam bakes.
- the colors of the jewelry coordinate with the outfit, keeping it cohesive.
- leopard print shoes are always in season. always. always. always.

2. The Sultry Cocktail Affair

- this is one debonair cocktail dress.
- requires a martini in one hand, and motion of authority in the other.
- perfect for fundraising dinners, formal affairs, and evening weddings.

3. The Everything Shower Affair

- baby, wedding, engagement, house-warming, whatever kind of shower.
- you need to put in some effort when attending a shower (totally a lost art with generation-y!).
- this dress is perfect for morning or afternoon showers, dinners out, etc.

4. The Charity Luncheon or Business Meeting

- keep it simple with a daring skirt like this.

- deep red lips gives you a boost of confidence to lead the way!

- pencil skirts scream "pumps!!"

- fancy bracelet adds a bit of whimsy and trendiness to the whole she-bang.

- this outfit would look super at an afternoon/early evening wedding.

Do you have a go-to outfit of choice when hosting or attending an occasion??

Happy Friday, Sweet Friends!!

Day 23: Baja Fish Tacos Recipe

2013-05-23T11:04:00.002-04:00

Fish tacos. There are too many recipes to count & countless ways to make them.

Well, here is my tried and true recipe. It is SO yummy. I have never served this where the guests didn't ask for the recipe. While it does have a few steps, and can seem laborious (this word may be my favorite!), it is SO SO SO worth it!

Nanci's Baja Fish Tacos

Pico de Gallo
1 large tomato - chopped
1/2 large red onion, or one small red onion, chopped (I like mine fairly well diced)
1 cup loosely packed cilantro - I used parsley....You know my feelings of dirty dish watered herbs
1 jalapeno pepper - diced finely
salt & pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients and chill for several hours to let the flavors marry.

Creamy Jalapeno-"Cilantro" Dressing
1 cup loosely packed cilantro leaves... aka parsley, chopped well
1 cup sour cream
1 large jalapeno, finely diced - seeds removed if desired
half of a red onion, finely diced
1 can of Rotel
juice of one lime
4 tsp powdered Ranch dressing mix
salt & pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients together - chilling for several hours. This dressing is more like a dip - and is great on anything. Dipping fresh tortilla chips is delectable!

Tacos - get ready!! - makes 12 tacos
3/4 cup flour - all purpose, next time I sometimes throw a quarter cup of corn meal in for added texture
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/4 tsp garlic powder - I used about 1/2 tsp
24 oz catfish fillets, sliced into 4x1/2 inch strips
lots of canola oil
paper towels
12 large tortillas
Garnishes: thinly sliced red cabbage & lime wedges. These are MUST haves. The taco would not be complete without these items!

Combine first four ingredients, dredging fish in flour mixture. Heat oil in pan (about an inch or two) to 375˚ - fry catfish in batches, draining on paper towels. Place catfish on warmed tortillas; topped with cabbage, pico de gallo, creamy dressing & squeeze of lime.

*I like to lightly fry my tortillas into a taco shell of sorts. Using a pair of tongs, hold your tortilla under hot oil for a few seconds, I place my tongs in the middle of the tortilla, making it sort of "come up around" the tongs.*

Serve these immediately! Wait till your guests arrive to fry the fish, serving margaritas before hand and some chips and salsa.

Cheers!

***This recipe and almost 100 other recipes are included in Successful Entertaining!***

Day 22: Maui Laui Salad Recipe

2013-05-22T09:57:00.002-04:00

Welcome to Day 22! Using salad as a main course is the perfect way to keep your house cool and not use your oven. It's also a great way to utilize the outdoors! This Maui Laui Salad tastes even better when eaten on the deck!

Maui Laui Salad
Salad Ingredients:
Egg Roll Wrappers
Lettuce
Cucumbers
Yellow Pepper
Red Pepper
Shredded Carrots
Macadamia Nuts
Sesame Seeds

Salad Dressing:
3 Tablespoons Soy Sauce
2 Tablespoons Rice Vinegar
1 Tablespoon Balsamic Vinegar
2 Tablespoons Sugar
Half Cup Olive Oil

Protein
Chicken (Salmon would be amazing on this!) - salt and pepper your protein & that's it!

Mix all DRESSING ingredients in bowl, reserving half for use of dressing.

Fry up some egg roll wrappers - they take about 10 seconds, literally! Once they are crispy, you are ready to assemble your salad: brush a petite amount of sweet and sour sauce on one side of the egg roll wrapper. This will be a 'dressed' wrapper.... Just so you know.

Grill salt & peppered chicken, 5+ minutes on each side, letting rest about 10 minutes before slicing. Be sure it is cooked all the way through - no icky food poisoning!

When ready to assemble salad, add half of remaining dressing to a big bowl fill with all salad items EXCEPT egg roll wrappers, nuts, and chicken.

Ready to assemble?? Ok, start with a little plop of dressed salad (with out chicken & nuts), follow that plop with one "dressed" egg roll wrapper. Plop (I like the word plop...do not judge me...) some more dressed salad and top with another 'dressed' wrapper. Your final layer will be a TINY amount of salad, sprinkled with however many macadamia nuts you would like.... these things are like butter.... SO yummy.

Now, place your chicken around the salad, sprinkle some sesame seeds over the whole thing and serve! You can stream some of the left over dressing, if you have any.

This is also the perfect thing to ask guests to help bring items. One person can bring the green, some one else the nuts, etc. This is a quick meal, and can be put together when your guests arrived. Just serve a cocktail, and have every one pitch in!

What Summer outdoor meals do you like to serve???

Day 21: Party Themes!

2013-05-21T16:18:00.001-04:00

Day 21. 10 days left...

I love a themed party.

Here are a few ideas of parties I have thrown.

Princess Tea Party

Picnic in the Park

Lunch in the Garden

60th Wedding Anniversary

Mason Jar Themed Wedding Shower

Peacock Feather Party

And, while that is fun, here are a couple party idea websites that are fantastic!!!

Hostess with the Mostess
Kara's Party Ideas

Chaitali, from Cuts, Crops & Creativity shared her *cute* idea for a Paper Crafting Party! You can read it here.

Happy Themed Partying, Sweet Friends!

Day 19: Spinach Artichoke Gnocchi Recipe

2013-05-19T20:38:00.001-04:00

Day 19! Yes, I realize I am posting two posts in ONE night, but I think it will be okay... The world WILL keep turning!

These little pillows of goodness are incredible. I first had some at one of my favorite restaurants: Rezaz Mediterranean Cuisine. If you ever visit Asheville, make this a priority!

I thought I would make my own version, but add a few other ingredients. At Rezaz, your plate comes with gnocchi, parmesan cream sauce and cute little green peas added for color and some texture.

While I love it, I wanted to incorporate another great flavor combo. Spinach Artichoke dip is such a winner, and it's even better with gnocchi! Top it off with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and a dash of balsamic vinegar - HEAVEN.

Spinach Artichoke Gnocchi
One package of gnocchi
2 Tbs Butter
2 Tbs Flour
1+ cups Milk
1/2 Cup Spinach Artichoke Dip
Salt and Pepper to taste
Parmesan Cheese
Balsamic Vinegar

Start boiling a big pot of water - enough for your gnocchi to cook. I could say that I made my own gnocchi from the left over mashed potatoes we had in our fridge. However, I just went to the store and purchased some from the pasta aisle. The same thing! And zilch work! WOO HOO!

While you are waiting for your water to boil, put 2 tablespoons of butter in a pan. Let it melt, then add 2 tablespoons of flour. Stir till combined and let cook till the raw flour taste isn't there anymore. About 2 minutes. Keep stirring it frequently, it can burn easily. You've just made a roux! Way to go. It's not difficult, huh?

After a couple minutes, add some milk. About a cup. Whisk the milk into the roux, getting all the lumps out. Add a scoop of spinach artichoke dip. You can either make this yourself, or buy it from the deli section of your grocery. Stir it well, until combined. Add some salt and pepper to your liking.

Add your gnocchi to boiling water and cook for 2 minutes. Or, until they pop up to the top of the water. Scoop them out with a slotted spoon into a bowl.

To your serving plate, add the gnocchi followed by a ladle of sauce. Top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and a dash of balsamic vinegar.

Enjoy!

Day 18: Top 10 'Must Have' Cooking Items

2013-05-19T20:28:00.002-04:00

These are my go to items, items I use everyday!

Have you ever stood in the Kitchen store wondering what in the heck to buy? With the enormous amount of kitchen gadgets out there, consumers become easily overwhelmed! Resulting in the dreaded chaotic 'gadget drawer' - where items are seldom used.

No more! Seriously. Those gadgets may do awesome things, but are they versatile? Does that ONE item you just purchased for $15 work on multiple items? Or does it just hull strawberries?

I have 10 items I use regularly. With the exception of some items that are just handy and make life easier. Citrus squeezer anyone??

The items below are my absolute favorites; these are the 'I-Could-Never-Live-Without-You' things that I will take on vacation, just in case!

Top 10 Must Have Cooking Items by sweetpealifestyle on polyvore.com

One of my ALL-TIME favorite gadgets?

The rasper.

Just saying 'rasper' is fun. But using one is even more fun! I use it to zest any citrus where it calls for juice - but I also use it for "mincing" garlic! Just run your clove of garlic over the rasper, and you have finely grated garlic that doesn't get stuck in your teeth... No one likes that. I use it to grate ginger into my dishes. Or finely grate parmesan cheese. Or, if I've over baked the cookies, just run this rasper on the crispy edges, and you've saved your cookie! That is 5 uses so far for ONE item.

Moving on....

Half-Sheet Pans. Jelly Roll pans. Whatever you want to call them - they are the perfect vessel for baking cookies, baking a 'half-sheet cake' {oh, now you get it!}, roasting vegetables, chicken, fish, beef, pork, anything. I make meatloaf on here, individual meatloves. {So nice to have your own!} And, the size is what I love the most! You can put your veggies on one side and your protein on the other and bake T-O-G-E-T-H-E-R. What a time saver! That is 9 uses for ONE item!

Woo hoo!

Cast-Iron-Skillet. You HAVE to have one. Your grandmother probably used it, and her grandmother probably gave it to her! If I had to tell you to buy one thing from this list {as much as I hate to say it...} this would be it! It is truly and all purpose 'cooker.' You can bake it in, you can fry in it, you can saute, and if you flip it over, you can make pancakes if you were in a pinch! Wowzer!

Whisk, Wooden Spoon & Tongs. The ONLY utensils you need in your jar. A spatula is nice and convenient - but these are you basic 'stirring' items you need.

Cutting board. Duh.

Nesting Bowls. I bought these several years ago after Christmas from Williams-Sonoma. They are $30 for 8 of them, and hands-down-my-favorite-bowls-ever. {I'm using this phrase a lot today, get used to it.} The different sizes are great to mix a cake, marinade, toss a salad, etc in. They are dishwasher safe, and for $30, I wish I had bought an extra set. LOVE THEM.

Stock Pot. Do you make stock? It's really easy! Your biggest "hurdle" is getting the big pot out. The bigger the pot the more the stock. Which means the better your homemade corn chowder just got! Buy a big stock pot and make the stock. You can thank me later.

And, finally. My pride and joy. THE Le Creuset Round Dutch Oven. It is heavy enough to lift weights with - but, I have never met another pot I liked better. It goes from the stove top to the oven to the table. With all the colors you can create a set that is like the color wheel - perfectly suited in every way! The heat is regulated within this great cooking vessel because it is Cast-Iron, coated in ceramic. Meaning, the great heat conduction cast iron gives is made even better by the ceramic-ness added! And, it's prettier. Way prettier.

{Can I add an 11th thing?}

I didn't include a knife! You will definitely need a knife. I like BIG knives and cannot lie. Like this one:

These are from Cutco, one of my favorite kitchen companies. They have wonderful customer service, and their knives are guaranteed for life. Even after my parents pass their big set down to me, the lifetime guarantee is still there! Yay!

Are there any kitchen gadgets you would add?

Happy Simple Cooking!

***I have one item to add: THIS knife I L-O-V-E. This and her pairing knife are the only knives I have used in the past few months... Besides a serrated Cutco knife!***

***DISCLAIMER: No, I have not been compensated by any of these companies. I am merely shouting to the world my love for good culinary gadgets!***

If you are just arriving on this series, here are the past posts you missed! Enjoy!

Day One: 31 Days to Successful Entertaining
Day Two: 12 Items Every Hostess Needs
Day Three: How to Organize Your Stuff Efficiently
Day Four: 20 No Cook Appetizers, FREE PRINTABLE
Day Five: How to Set a Buffet Table
Day Six: Tuscan Lemon Chicken
Day Seven: 8 Floral Arranging Tips
Day Eight: Lunch Party Menu Ideas
Day Nine: Thai Chicken Salad Recipe
Day Ten: 10 Economical Decorating Ideas
Day Eleven: Juice of a Few Flowers Cocktail Recipe
Day Twelve: Top 5 Party Menus
Day Thirteen: Rosemary Cashews
Day Fourteen: Using Silhouette Vinyl with Your Cameo
Day Fifteen: Pimento Cheese, a Southern Staple
Day Sixteen: Table Top Decorating Ideas
Day Seventeen: Peacock Party & Using Party Printables

Day 17: Peacock Party!

2013-05-17T11:10:00.001-04:00

You've heard of party printables, right?? If you haven't, you can visit some of the shops at the end of the post that offer fabulous party printables!

They are a super {cheap} and effective way to dress any party up! While they do take a lot of time to print, cut and assemble, they can take a plain ordinary party to whole new level.

Here is a Peacock Party that is designed by Print Candee. You can find her shop listed at the end! She offers wonderful products at an affordable price!

Peacock Lunch Party

Print Candee's Peacock Feather Party Pack

You can also search Etsy for printables. Etsy has cute designers who make adorable printables. You can also Google/Pinterest search - there are many F-R-E-E printables circulating the world wide web! In Successful Entertaining, there are two party printables. Complete with a banner, cupcake toppers, food labels, invitation, and menu card.

Print Candee
Living Locurto
Kara's Party Ideas

Day 16: Table Top Decorating Ideas

2013-05-16T14:25:00.001-04:00

It's Day 16! Half way through our 31 Days to Successful Entertaining! I love a well dressed table. I love a well-dressed table that has used items around the house. While buying new things is super fun, it's equally as rewarding to re-purpose something and use it!

I love entertaining; planning dinner parties, and making adorable crafty items to go along with the theme. But, what I have noticed is when guests come over, they have NO IDEA how simple it is to plan and host a party. Follow a few of my simple tips and tricks, and your guests will be leaving your house saying "that was the best party I've been to in years!"

One great place to start when planning a party or dinner is thinking about your table top. Usually, the food is the focal point. And you have to have a great table to put you food on...

Here are a few ways I have dressed my tables and the few items I must have each time:

1. Leading Lines:

In photography, leading lines are a focal point for adding depth to your photos. You want the eye to start in one spot, and lead to the next. The same is true for decorating a table. Our table is long and wide, therefore the perfect canvas for leading lines down the center of candles and floral arrangements.

2. Focal point:

While you want leading lines, you also want something keeping your table "grounded." You want your largest feature to keep to the center. Keep in mind, when using your table for dinner parties, keep your arrangement no taller than the mouth of the opposing person. That is one of my biggest pet peeves! Sitting down to dinner and not being able to see the person across from you!

3. Pattern:

Just like with dressing your self, a table needs to be dressed with pattern, texture and simplicity. This table runner added a great pattern to plain white cloth.

4. Texture:

Using a lightly patterned white cloth and beautiful floral arrangements this table was almost complete. The candles added ambience and extra height, but the faux diamonds added texture to the table. They also added an elegance that was missing!

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Just a few easy things to remember when dressing your table! I go in depth on decorating your home beautifully when hosting a party in my eBook, Successful Entertaining.

What items have you used that you just L-O-V-E on your table??

If you are a home decorating or crafting blogger, don't forget to apply to be on Sweetpea Lifestyle's Mantle of the Month Design Team. You can fill out the application and read more about it here.

Mantle of the Month Design Team Call!

2013-05-15T20:35:00.001-04:00

Do you have a mantle??

Do you decorate your mantle each season??

If so, apply to be on the Sweetpea Lifestyle Mantle of the Month Design Team!

Each month, a linky party will be live and anyone and everyone can enter their mantle. Each week, we will share our favorites, as well as tutorials using different crafting mediums. This is a great way to grow your blog by being on the design team. Fill out the form below and I will get back to you! We will begin the linky party August 1st. The Design Team will be chosen June 25th.

Day 15: Pimento Cheese Recipe

2013-05-15T12:57:00.000-04:00

Woo hoo! One of my favorite things! Pimento Cheese....

It's a southern staple on every table. This pimento cheese is slightly different, it's baked, and served with chips. However, when not baked, and served on top a slice of bread... It's just as yummy! I even use it in my eggs in the morning with onions, peppers and zucchini! Yum.

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Here in the south, we love, LOVE pimento cheese. It's right on up there with grits and pecans. And sweet tea, of course!

In Asheville, we have lots of fabulous restaurants. However! My absolute-hands-down-favorite restaurant is Tupelo Honey Cafe. OMG. My family and I have been going there for the past 10 years - it's the one place we can all agree on, AND get something we like! One of the "things" I like best about Tupelo Honey (besides their goat cheese grits, rosemary lemonade & pimento cheese dip) is their farm. Sun Shot farms is the local farm they use to bring the freshest veggies & goodness to the table. Thank you, Tupelo Honey for using sustainabilty to benefit our creation!

Now, on to the dip! This recipe I re-created long before their cookbook came out & it's pretty darn close. I add a few fun things that will make your tongue sing. (Or for those of you who don't like spicy, it will make your tongue burn. Please omit freely!)

Delish Pimento Cheese Dip
1 pound yellow sharp cheddar cheese...please grate yourself!
2 roasted red peppers, diced
Several rings of pickled jalapenos, diced
1 tbs stone ground mustard
2 tbs worcestershire sauce
1/2 tbs steak seasoning
3/4 cup mayonnaise

Combine all ingredients in food processor. Dump into a (sprayed!) baking dish - bake at 400˚ until bubbly and melty. Serve warm with tortilla chips & extra jalapenos!

P.S. Tupelo Honey has a COOKBOOK! It is wonderful. All my favorite recipes! Go buy a copy today for your self, for your mama, for your sister, for your brother.

Pimento cheese is great to serve as an appetizer. Or, bring to a pot luck dinner. It's also a great "filler" if you just need something else to add to your menu - choose this!

Cheers to Cheese!

Day 14: Using Silhouette Cameo and Cutting Vinyl

2013-05-14T06:30:00.000-04:00

Day 14, almost HALF WAY through our series! I hope you are learning and taking away information you find useful!

Today, my sweet friend, Jessica of Begin to Craft is sharing a tutorial on using Vinyl with your Silhouette Cameo. You all know my absolute L-O-V-E for my Cameo! I do use vinyl, however, I am not great with it, ~~making projects several times in order to get it perfect.~~ I am SO thankful for her putting this together....

Enjoy.

If you do not own a Cameo, you may be interested in the past published posts:

Day One: 31 Days to Successful Entertaining
Day Two: 12 Items Every Hostess Needs
Day Three: How to Organize Your Stuff Efficiently
Day Four: 20 No Cook Appetizers, FREE PRINTABLE
Day Five: How to Set a Buffet Table
Day Six: Tuscan Lemon Chicken
Day Seven: 8 Floral Arranging Tips
Day Eight: Lunch Party Menu Ideas
Day Nine: Thai Chicken Salad Recipe
Day Ten: 10 Economical Decorating Ideas
Day Eleven: Juice of a Few Flowers Cocktail Recipe
Day Twelve: Top 5 Party Menus
Day Thirteen: Rosemary Cashews

Jessica is making a super cute vinyl frame for a whiteboard shape. She put it on chipboard, which Silhouette has recently created and will soon start selling.

This basic tutorial will help you get started using Vinyl with your Cameo!

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Here is a picture I took of my image on my computer screen. I wanted just the frame cut out in this nice bright yellow vinyl I had picked out.

The settings are preset for Vinyl and this is what we went by for our cuts. Just make sure to change the blade setting to a 2.

Place the vinyl on the mat and smooth out as much as you can. This was not as much rolled as it was folded and had a ton of wrinkles and folds.

It is now ready to lift the cover, line it up under the rollers and hit the load button. It came out easy to lift up, and I was ready to go.

I pulled the vinyl backing carefully off so I could smooth it onto the chipboard and rub out the wrinkles.

I then went back to my image on the screen, and eliminated the outside edge of the frame. I added white vinyl to my mat, and cut it out as well. The white vinyl I used was a whiteboard type vinyl. I made this up for a teacher appreciation gift, but it also could very easily be used for a Mother's day gift. I like the cheerfulness of the yellow. You could add magnet strips to the back, or just push some pushpins in it to hang. So many options for use. I thought about hanging it in my kids hallway or bathroom for little reminders and a fun pop of color for daily quotes or phrases.

I could make this SO much bigger if I wanted. I Love my Silhouette machine.

What do you use vinyl for?

Day 13: Rosemary Cashews

2013-05-13T11:06:00.001-04:00

On this gorgeous day here in Asheville, snacks are perfect to serve during a party, or before dinner. A simple item, dressed up to enhance their flavor.

Cashews are such a great, protein packed snack. They are hearty enough where just a small handful is plenty, even though you want to eat more!

Here is a way to dress these babies up...

Take a pound of cashews and drop one tablespoon of olive oil in, mix till coated well. Add a tablespoon of finely minced rosemary and half teaspoon of cracked black pepper. Mix well. Spread on cookie sheet and bake in oven at 350 degrees for about 8-10 minutes. When you smell the nutty-rosemary-goodness, they're done!

See what an easy snack that is to make!!? Serve these in a nice bowl on the table, or place a couple tablespoons in small baggies for guests to take as a parting gift. They will love them, as will you and yours!

Day 12: Top 5 Party Menus

2013-05-12T06:30:00.000-04:00

When I host parties, I use the same menus, over and over. Sometimes I combine menus and use items from other ones, just to keep it fresh! Now, next week I will talk about not being boring and serving the same thing every time. However, if you have an arsenal of 15-20 recipes that you and your family love, you can create a new menu every time. Plus, it's all in presentation. If it is presented well your guests will love it!

I have created a PDF of the menu items, so you can print them out. They will be in the Workbook section of my eBook, Successful Entertaining. And! All the recipes will be provided in the Recipe book!

These recipes are my go-to recipes! The grilled lemon chicken recipe is the same as the one from Day 6.

If you missed last week and are just joining, here is a list of the previous posts. Enjoy!

Day One: 31 Days to Successful Entertaining
Day Two: 12 Items Every Hostess Needs
Day Three: How to Organize Your Stuff Efficiently
Day Four: 20 No Cook Appetizers, FREE PRINTABLE
Day Five: How to Set a Buffet Table
Day Six: Tuscan Lemon Chicken
Day Seven: 8 Floral Arranging Tips
Day Eight: Lunch Party Menu Ideas

Day 11: Juice of a Few Flowers Cocktail Recipe

2013-05-11T06:30:00.000-04:00

It's Saturday, and I love a good cocktail late in the afternoon. Especially on a warm, sunny day!

Not only does this cocktail look spectacular in the glass, it tastes über yummy. Make a big pitcher of these for your next shin dig, and you'll have people on your front porch all the time!

This drink also works well for brunch hour. You can always leave the vodka out, if you're not into drinking early in the day...

Juice of a Few Flowers -

Ina Garten - Back to Basics

Ingredients

1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (2 oranges)
1/2 cup freshly squeezed pink grapefruit juice (1 grapefruit)
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (1 lemon)
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (2 limes)
1 cup good vodka, such as Grey Goose or Finlandia (optional)
Extra lemon juice
Granulated sugar
Fresh mint sprigs

Directions

Combine the orange juice, grapefruit juice, lemon juice, lime juice, and vodka, if using, in a pitcher. Dip the rim of 6 martini glasses first in a dish with lemon juice and then a dish with sugar. Set aside to dry.

When ready to serve, place ice cubes in a cocktail shaker, add the cocktail mixture to fill the shaker three-quarters full, and shake for about 30 seconds. It's important to shake for a full 30 seconds to get the drink very cold and dilute it slightly with the ice. Pour into the sugared martini glasses and garnish with a sprig of mint. Continue filling the shaker with ice and cocktail mixture until all the drinks are poured. Serve ice cold.

This was delightful. Crisp, clean and quite refreshing. Perfect late afternoon drink that can easily be consumed anytime of the day!

Day 10: Ten Economical Decorating Ideas

2013-05-10T10:01:00.003-04:00

Happy Friday!!!! Yay! We are Raleigh bound for our favorite Danielle's GRADUATION!!!!

We are so proud of Danielle and cannot wait for her move to Raleigh with a big girl job! Thanks for loving John-John (my brother!) unconditionally everyday! We love you!!

Today is May 10th, and I am sharing 10 Economical Decorating Ideas with you. These are super easy, too! Most items you can find in your cabinets or craft supplies at home! Otherwise, a trip to the Dollar Store and you are set to go!

1. Tissue Paper Pom-Poms

Instead of hanging these great center-stage items, I placed them in the middle of the table in lieu of flowers. Worked great! You can download my step byt step How to Make a Tissue Paper Pom Pom HERE. It's F-R-E-E! I know you can google it and finds hundreds of tutorials, but I thought it might be nice for you to print out! Enjoy!

2. Christmas Lights

I L-O-V-E Christmas lights! Above I used them around an upside down tomato cage to make a tree for our front door. We had the chalkboard out there with Merry Christmas on it.

3. Buttons

This is my BIG mason jar filled with buttons. {If you know what Just Ducky is, they are located here in Asheville! They closed their warehouse and had a GIGANTIC sale.... a cup of buttons for I think $0.50, maybe $1! Crazy!!} Scatter these cute colorful babies onto a table, around your food table, or string them together and make garland. The possibilites are endless!

4. Plastic Table Coverings

While I don't use them often, they are perfect for a buffet table. Cover you table with a plain white cloth, and accent with a colorful plastic one. You see I gathered mine in the middle with a tissue paper pom pom. Great focal point, and CHEAP....$1.

5. Sprinkle Candles

These candles are from the dollar store, unscented, and covered in sprinkles! Any color would work! use the colors of your theme and read this tutorial, it's super simple and quick! Kids love this craft, too!

6. Food

Why not use your dessert items or fruits as a centerpiece in your table?? Prop plates up so you have different heights.

7. Platters

While these are on a dessert table and not a decoration, I love to fill platters with glass votives and candles, placing them in the middle of the table. It looks cohesive as well as elegant. And, the silver hue of the platter reflects the light from the candles, giving a twinkly essence!

8. Everyday Glass Ware

For these cake platters, I turned glasses upside down, and placed glass plates on top. These adorable 6 inch cakes looked so sweet (pun intended...) on top!

Everyday glass ware held these flowers as vases!

9. Chalkboard

A quart of chalkboard paint goes a long, long way! I used it to turn this old window into a magnetic chalkboard.

10. China!

Using different patterns is fun, too!

See how easy it is to find economical decorating items in your home?? Look around, and find something that makes YOU happy and use it!

What ideas do you have?? Have you used anything super "out of the ordinary?" I'd love to hear!

Day 9: Thai Chicken Salad

2013-05-09T10:10:00.004-04:00

Salad is a great lunch or dinner party dish. Assemble the items ahead of time and toss together when ready to serve!

This salad is a recreation from a local restaurant, Pack's Tavern, that is my go to menu item there.

While the recipe has a few components, it is WELL worth the effort!

Thai (Chicken) Salad
Marinade for Chicken:
3 tbs Mango Chutney
2 tbs Soy Sauce
2 tbs Worcestershire Sauce
1 tbs Fish Sauce - this is optional, however it adds a wonderful depth of flavor to this recipe
1 tbs Apple Cider Vinegar
1 tbs Sugar

Combine all together and pour over chicken. Marinade for at least an hour - I let mine "swim" for 4+ hours.

Dressing for the Salad
3 tbs Soy Sauce
3 tbs Apple Cider Vinegar
2 tbs Sugar
Splash of the Fish Sauce, if you're feeling exotic
1/2 cup Olive Oil

I added some "pickled" onions - recipe to follow - this adds that small component to the dressing that makes everything super yummy!

Salad Stuff
lettuce - chopped
red cabbage - shredded, about a cup's worth
One red bell pepper - diced
Cucumber - diced
Carrots - shredded or chopped
Broccoli Slaw - you know, the one in the bag??? Uh huh!
Mandarin Oranges - 1 can
Craisins - yes ma'am.
Chinese crunchy noodles - the ones from the can? Oh so yummy.

Quick Pickled Onions
This works for any onion, but I used a red onion. Slice the onion very thinly and place in a bowl of vinegar and sugar. Let "pickle" for at least ten minutes. This takes the harsh 'onioniness' away - yielding sweet & tender onions!

Grill chicken. Cut into pieces. Add all items to big bowl and toss when ready to serve! Enjoy, friends!

Here it is pictured without chicken, making it a vegetarian winner!

Do you have a go to salad recipe that can be served for lunch or dinner as a main dish??

Catch up on the days past below!

Day One: 31 Days to Successful Entertaining
Day Two: 12 Items Every Hostess Needs
Day Three: How to Organize Your Stuff Efficiently
Day Four: 20 No Cook Appetizers, FREE PRINTABLE
Day Five: How to Set a Buffet Table
Day Six: Tuscan Lemon Chicken
Day Seven: 8 Floral Arranging Tips
Day Eight: Lunch Party Menu Ideas

Linking up to the following parties:

Day 8: Lunch Party & Menu Ideas

2013-05-08T06:30:00.000-04:00

It's Day 8 of 31 Days to Successful Entertaining! Today I will share Lunch Party Ideas & Menus. Easy peasy ways to enjoy your friends and family over lunch time. These parties are great for after church, or a Saturday afternoon.

Lunch parties are such a great way to entertain. It's an easy time of the day, people come eat and relax for a couple hours, then they are on their merry way! And, you have the rest of your day left.

Here are a few lunch time ideas:

Lunch in the Garden

Simple lunch of Grilled Lemon Chicken over Spinach with Grilled Zucchini & Yellow Squash. Posed in the garden under the pergola, this light lunch fit the mood perfectly!

Picnic in the Park

This is such an easy way of getting together with friends. Meet in the park and bring a picnic!

A few recipes to take on a picnic are the Classic Pimento Cheese Sandwiches with crisp potato chips and a Crudité platter. Pictured here are croissants with fig jam, pretzels with honey mustard, and pimento cheese with crackers. Snacky items work well on picnics. Remember to bring some lawn games for the family to play!

Princess Tea Party

This set up for was for a girls Princess Tea Party to celebrate the upcoming school year. While this wasn't necessarily lunch, it occurred at lunch time. The girls feasted on treats of croissants and jam, goldfish, marshmallows, and tea. Of course, they enjoyed drinking tea.

Plan a lunch party and keep it simple! Share any lunch recipes or ideas you have!

Day 7: 8 Floral Arranging Tips

2013-05-07T11:27:00.000-04:00

***Yes, today WAS the day that my eBook, Successful Entertaining was to release. I have been waiting for my Wordpress design and online store for months.... I hope you don't mind waiting....! Tomorrow I will have two of my favorite tools I use, getting you excited about everything the book contains!***

It's Spring, flowers are blooming everywhere!

Here are 8 tips I have for you about flower arranging. I am not a florist, so these are my own opinions. I am very opinionated about flowers, as well as a lot of things... Have you noticed?!

Here in Asheville we have a fabulous luxury of Your Vase or Mine. A sweet lady grows flowers in her garden, you order by the bucket full, and she cuts them for you. Then, I arrange them however I want! LOVE.

These are the product of that service. I did add yellow roses that I purchased from the store.

I used everyday drinking glasses and mason jars as the vases, with different heights. Using height allows for an eye appealing depth with your floral arrangement.

1. Never arrange flowers higher than your mouth. You want to be sure to see the person across from you, not strain your neck around some large arrangement.

2. When cutting fresh flowers, either cut early in the morning or late in the evening. Flowers are like people, they stress very easily when moved to new surroundings.

3. Flowers like Lemon-Lime Soda. Not a lot, just a tinge in the vase mixed with room temperature water.

4. Flowers also like to resemble being in the garden. Not too close together, and not too far.

These lovely arrangements were used for a sweet girl's wedding. Larger vases filled with sunflowers, wild flowers, and fresh rosemary were placed between people's places. Lower arrangements were used as fillers.

5. Use long lines. Keeping a fluid line is appealing for the human eye.

6. Use nature. Twigs, branches, greenery. Use those coniferous trees and bushes!

7. When using a wide vase, add tape (I like to use masking tape. But, floral or plain old Scotch tape work great!) in a criss cross manner. Place your stems in between the tape pieces, allowing your flowers to have a "net" to hold them properly.

8. Trim the stems everyday, and change the water. Your flowers will thank you, and will stay around much longer.

What flower tips and tricks do you have?? I would love for you to share!

Need to catch up?? Here is a recap so far..

Day One: 31 Days to Successful Entertaining
Day Two: 12 Items Every Hostess Needs
Day Three: How to Organize Your Stuff Efficiently
Day Four: 20 No Cook Appetizers, FREE PRINTABLE
Day Five: How to Set a Buffet Table
Day Six: Tuscan Lemon Chicken

Day 6: Tuscan Lemon Chicken

2013-05-07T10:30:00.000-04:00

***Friendly Blogger Reminder: you can't continue a series, if you don't press post.... This post coming to you a day late!***

We are almost a week into 31 Days to Successful Entertaining. At the end of this post, are links to the other days you *may* have missed. Be sure to subscribe over here on the right to send the posts right to your inbox!

Roasting a chicken is a great, economical protein to cook for a big dinner party. And, this chicken could not be more yummy.

Tart lemon paired with sweet rosemary, and grilled to crispy perfection.

This also makes wonderful chicken salad the next day - just removed the skin, chop in to bite sized chunks and add a combo of mayo, greek yogurt, and a myriad of fresh herbs. Delish!

This chicken is super yummy. If you love lemon and rosemary, you will LOVE this.

Tuscan Lemon Chicken

1 (3 1/2-pound) chicken, flattened
Kosher salt
1/3 cup good olive oil
2 teaspoons grated lemon zest (2 lemons)
1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tablespoon minced garlic (3 cloves)
1 tablespoon minced fresh rosemary leaves
Freshly ground black pepper
1 lemon, halved

Directions

Sprinkle the chicken with 1 teaspoon salt on each side. Combine the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, and 2 teaspoons pepper in a small measuring cup. Place the chicken in a ceramic or glass dish just large enough to hold it flat. Pour the lemon marinade over the chicken, turning it in the dish. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Turn the chicken 2 or 3 times while marinating.

When ready to grill, prepare a hot charcoal fire on 1 side of a grill (or turn a gas grill on low heat). Spread 1/4 of the coals across the other side of the grill. Place the chicken on the cooler side, skin side up, and weigh it down with the dish you used for marinating. (I liked to use a cast iron skillet + a couple bricks, so it REALLY weighs it down.) Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, until the underside is golden brown. Turn the chicken skin side down, weight again with the dish, and cook for another 12 to 15 minutes, until the skin is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. Place the lemon halves on the cool side of the grill, cut side down for the last 10 minutes of cooking. Remove the chicken to a plate or cutting board, cover with aluminum foil, and allow to rest for 5 minutes. Cut in quarters, sprinkle with salt, and serve with the grilled lemon halves.

Make this chicken this week. It's easy and quick! Besides waiting for the bird to marinate, you have most of your dinner ready in half an hour. Add a side of roasted broccoli and you have a great meal. Here are a few side dish ideas for you, to complete your dinner party. Of course, these are all included in my eBook's recipe section!

Roasted Broccoli
Roasted Herbed Potatoes
Angel Hair Pasta with Italian Herbs & Parmesan Cheese

Now, if you are just joining us, go catch up!

Day One: 31 Days to Successful Entertaining
Day Two: 12 Items Every Hostess Needs
Day Three: How to Organize Your Stuff Efficiently
Day Four: 20 No Cook Appetizers, FREE PRINTABLE
Day Five: How to Set a Buffet Table

I'm linking up to the following parties:

Day 5: How to Set A Buffet Table

2013-05-05T06:30:00.000-04:00

This was a previous post, but coordinates with Successful Entertaining! Enjoy, Sweet Friends!

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So, yesterday I shared the decorations for the wedding shower we hosted this past weekend. Today, I'll be sharing some details that make all the difference in hosting a Successful Dinner Party.

The first thing I do is write my dishes down on to post-it notes. That way I can label each platter I choose, but before then, I can arrange the food in an appealing manor, before actually doing it! (Did that make ANY sense??)

Here are a few tips for choosing

a buffet menu for a cocktail party:

1. Keep it simple!

2. Choose 6-8 items, nothing too fancy, and nothing that requires more than one hand.

3. When choosing proteins, go for a fish, a meat/poultry, and a vegetarian option. (Hummus is always a great option!)

4. I know it may seem lame, but everyone REALLY does love a veggie and fruit tray. These should be staples on any buffet line.

5. Arrange the table with hot foods first, ending with cold. However, it is best to choose items that can be served room temperature, so you don't have to deal with chaffing dishes and iced platters...

I like to add all the serving pieces I may need to the post-it. That way, if others arrive early to help, they know exactly what needs to go with it.

For the Chicken Satay, I needed a bowl for the sauce and a spoon. This post it was then placed on the platter that was used for serving.

Start with a blank table cloth. Be sure it is pressed well, and even on the table. You don't want to add all your decorations, then find out your cloth is off by a few inches on one side....

Now, add your decorations. I love using a long, clean line down the center of the table. One larger arrangement with a table runner keeps it uncluttered.

Candles always, always add elegance to any table. This runner was a twig runner, and very wobbly. Add in the evergreen branches also lining the table, and the candles could have been very hazardous. To avoid any issues, I used taller votive candle holders than normal. Making sure no wick was close to the top, or close to anything that could catch fire. ~~I have done that, many times...~~

Now arrange your platters around. While using height can add a great aesthetic to your table, if it cannot be properly stabilized, you don't want to risk someone accidentally knocking a platter off..... If I want to add height, I will use odd serving pieces such as a cake platter for bread, or a tea tray full of veggies and fruit. This weekend, I kept it simple and didn't go out of the ordinary.

Set the plates and napkins at one end, being careful not to stack too tall. Also, arranging your napkins square, diamond, square, diamond helps your guests pick them up with one hand.

Add your food labels, and you are ready! Well, after you put the food in their coordinating dishes...

Do you have any tips for arranging a buffet table?

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May 7th. Put it on your calendar! Successful Entertaining will be released! YAY!!! Containing almost 100 recipes and countless tips and tricks for you to read and use!

Day 4: 20 No-Cook Appetizers

2013-05-04T06:30:00.000-04:00

I am not a big appetizer fan. I have a tinge of OCD, where when guests show up to my house, I want the meal ready, and we sit down to eat. But! Let's be real, it's hardly ever ready exactly when people show up..... They are either early, ~~waiting and in your way~~; or, late.

Here are 20 No-Cook Appetizers, available in a handy printable for you! Most of these items can be kept at the ready, making your job that much easier! CLICK HERE to Download!

The recipes for Guacamole, Texas Caviar, Classic Spinach Dip and Shrimp & Cocktail Sauce can all be found in my eBook, Successful Entertaining, releasing May 7th!!!

Do you have any no-cook appetizers you love???

Day 3: How To Organize Your Stuff Efficiently

2013-05-03T06:30:00.000-04:00

Organizing is a fun thing for me. I love to organize piles of untidy things into neat, tidy "homes." However, if you were to peek into my room, you would find disorganized chaos. Just saying....

In order to make party planning a breeze, you need to know what you have and where it is. It doesn't necessarily have to be all in one place, just in a permanent home, where you can find it easily.

I have a china cabinet filled with the china we use every now and then. It also hold the glasses we use weekly for larger dinner parties. It has tea cups and coffee cups, as well as a few votive candle holders. This may seem like several different items all jumbled into one, but it works for me. I like to have certain items close by, so when we have last minute dinner guests, I'm not running all over the house looking for things. These are my "go-to" items, and I know I can always find them there.

We have a three buffets that hold several items...

1. Linens. Only linens go here. Napkins, table clothes, place mats.

2. Candles. ALL candles live here.

3. Odds and Ends. This one holds the flatware, dessert plates, a few (regularly used) linens, and serving pieces.

My craft items are kept in my craft room. If I need to work on a project, I go in there to do it, and try to keep it contained in there. ~~Rarely happens.~~ (You will see my craft room later in this series!)

We have a cabinet full of salad bowls and salt/pepper shakers. As well as a few serving pieces.

Having these items in specific "homes," I know exactly where to find items I need. I try not to keep things in these vital real estate locations that we don't use regularly. Items that are only used for certain holidays, or not used often, are kept downstairs in the storage room. A shelf is devoted to vases and other paraphernalia.

Take a weekend, or a full day and put all your items in specific homes. If you find something you don't use often, either give it away, or put it somewhere in storage, where you know you will be able to access it! After a year, if you still haven't used that item, GET. IT. OUT. Just do it! It is SO freeing to give things away! Plus, it makes more room for *new* fun things!

I don't iron my linens after I wash them, I just throw the table cloth in the dryer for a few minutes before I use it. If it really needs ironing, I'll do it, but rarely. As for napkins, I do like those ironed and folded (into a square!). When I need to use them, they are pressed and ready. Ironing them into a folded square not only saves space in the drawers, it also allows for versatile napkin folds.

As far as platters, etc. We have labelled cabinets for those items. Let's be real, they rarely make it back to the correct cabinet on the first try..... I try to keep the serving platters in one cabinet, the cooking vessels in another, etc.

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Yay! I'm a Co-Host, with several other LOVELY bloggers, over at I Don't Go to the Gym... Be sure to follow the hosts and co-hosts and visit a few others! Great reads below!

Day 2: 12 Tools Every Hostess Needs

2013-05-02T06:30:00.000-04:00

Hooray!! It's May!!

I am loving the weather, and the beautiful foliage that is coming in everyday! The tulips and dogwoods are blooming, and my peonies are on the horizon.

With this beautiful weather comes lots of party planning. With lots of party planning comes lots of cooking!

Here are my 12 items I cannot live without. Seriously! These are the items I use everyday, and especially with every party! These are in no particular order... And, they are all my favorite tools, so if I use the term favorite a lot, please do not hold me grammatically responsible....

1. Card stock. Not only do I make invitations out of these, I print my food labels on here, and cut them using my Silhouette!

2. My Silhouette Cameo - couldn't live without this wonderful piece of equipment. If you are a crafter, and enjoy paper crafts (you can make SO much more than just paper crafts with it!) YOU. NEED. ONE. Really and truly, this may be my favorite item!

Here are a couple items I have made using my Cameo:

Mason Jar Food Labels

Craft Dash Quatrefoil stickers for a card

3. Pastry Scraper - this is great for when you have a lot of chopping and a lot of little pieces to pick up. Chop them on your cutting board, and scoop into your pot/bowl/etc.

4. Baker's Twine. LOVE this stuff! You can use it on cards, added to labels, etc.

Here I used it on the label as well as the drink dispenser. Adds a cute, fun touch, huh??

5. Mason Jars - not only are they perfect drinking vessel, they hold flowers, hold candles, filled with marbles and put lights in them. FAVORITE

6. Sticky Notes - I LOVE using these to label my platters before a big dinner or cocktail party.

7. Christmas Lights - need I say more??? The twinkly hue it gives to wherever you string them adds such dimension to any party decor.

8. Dollar Store Silver Platters - I would be lost without these! If I take a platter of cookies to a party and forget it, it's okay! It was only $1! And, they go with everything.

Definitely dresses these store-bought sweet treats up!

9. Place Cards - While I make my own more often than buy them, store bought ones come in handy for those last minute dinner parties!

Here I made the place cards using Publisher, added photos to each of the cards, as well as a name. Giving a great conversation piece, as well as a fun keepsake!

10. Tissue Paper - pom-poms, and focal points are created using tissue paper. I love the versatility of this wonderful item!!

Fun Peacock Themed Party!

Poms-Poms were used as the table decoration for the Lunch in the Garden

11. Le Creuset Pot - LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this cookware. Ceramic coated cast iron conducts heat evenly and efficiently. Making your food perfect, and your cook time faster.

12. My Chalkboard - I made this several months ago, and have used it time and again. I love putting the party's menu on it, or saying Merry Christmas!

Woo hoo! Those are my 12 items I cannot live without. Tomorrow, I will be talking about how to organize your items efficiently. Your china, candles, vases, etc. Get excited!

31 Days to Successful Entertaining

2013-05-01T06:30:00.000-04:00

I am SO excited to be sharing this today!

I started writing an eBook back in November... and I didn't tell anyone until a couple months ago. I'm a fairly private person, only sharing close things with close people. However, I love entertaining. At least once a week we have someone over for dinner. I love hosting parties and dinners, and I think the entire process is fun. I wanted to share that love with all the world, therefore I wrote a book! One of the most loving acts I can do for you is make you a meal and set a place at my table. Sharing this information is the same as me opening my home to you! You're invited, anytime!

While hosting dinner parties over the last couple years, I have photographed them and taken notes. While these are compiled into the eBook, Successful Entertaining, I wanted to share information on my blog as well. I also didn't want to write a book that you purchase, but could read the same recipes and information on my blog for free.... That isn't smart! This labor of love not only includes close to 100 recipes, but it includes every secret I have learned (so far!) from entertaining. It includes helpful printables that will keep your organized and help you efficiently plan your party!

So, for the next 31 days in May, I will share a daily tip or trick, party or dinner. I also will be releasing my eBook, as well as F-R-E-E printables and items that will make party planning more simple and stress free for you!

Follow along via BlogLovin, Pinterest, and Facebook so you don't miss a thing! I hope you will learn a few things, as well as spark your own inner Martha and learn to love entertaining as much as I do!

Cheers, Sweet Friends, to a new adventure in Successful Entertaining!