A Rewarding Mess

“I am thankful for the mess to clean after a party because it means I have been surrounded by friends.” —Nancie J. Carmody

This quote sums up one the joys of entertaining. The day after we’ve had friends over, we sit around in the mess for awhile, remembering the fabulous event. We sure like to create a place for our friends to get caught up with each other.  The mess is a bit of a reward really.  If you’re not having friends over, I sure hope you do.  It doesn’t need to be complicated.  Its about the people not the food.

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Style 101- What Every Stylish Woman Should Know

Every now and then I come across a good reference book. This particular one is targeting woman who are interested in style.  The book covers over 100 how- to’s.  The information is very useful and timeless. I first saw this book in a home decorating store. I purchased it and mailed it to my sister – I think shes enjoyed it.  I, myself, have rented it from the library twice now.  I recently gleaned information from this book before buying a double string of vintage pearls I had spotted at a thrift store.  I’m very pleased with my purchase.  Some topics include how to:

Find the perfect pants

Pick a makeup brush

Trim your bangs

Buy pearls

Arrange a bookshelf

Buy vintage clothes

Create a 5 star bedroom

Decorate with color….

I am sure you will find something useful in this book if you pick it up or rent it from your library. Have a great week.

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Chili Bar

I thought I would share this easy entertaining idea that I have tried and really enjoy preparing for and serving to my family and friends. I like it because it is easy and stress free. It is a chili bar. I read about this first in Real Simple magazine last year. Start by making a large pot of chili (you can make this ahead and freeze). Then fill small bowls of toppings to put on the chili. I have used: chopped romaine, chopped radishes, chopped scallions, chopped black olives, chopped tomato, avocado, pumpkin seeds, cranberries, and other similar items.  I also fill a bowl with tortilla chips. My guests first put tortilla chips on their plate, then chili on top, then whatever toppings they like on the chili.  By using tortilla chips you can eliminate cutlery.  I am not able to fit everyone around a table.  Therefore I provide each guest with a decorative t-towel for his or her lap.  To decorate my buffet table I first put down a white tablecloth, then I scatter cards/photos  (or whatever theme you like) on the table. I then cover the table with a clear plastic table protector. This keeps the tablecloth clean and the cards in place. I put a center piece in the middle. Next I put the chili on the table in a nice serving dish with the toppings around it.  I keep dessert simple – an apple crisp or easy black forest cake.  We invite 3-4 couples over for a casual evening – usually on a weeknight. We also play a game like jeopardy (homemade and theme based).   This evening is so simple and stress free. It is also easy to tweak. I hope you give it a try. Linda

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