Un-Valentine Party

Valentine's Day is approaching, and everywhere we go we'll be presented with hearts and cupids. There are lots of places you can look to find ideas for that romantic dinner for two, and in fact, we'll look into that here at Party Planning at another time.

But what about those who aren't in a romantic situation this February 14? Are they supposed to sit this holiday out? Nope! A friend of mine told me that she is throwing an Un-Valentine Party for all of her single friends, and I think that's a great idea. Here are some ideas.

Decorations: the stores are full of Valentines supplies, and they don't all have to be associated with romance.

Flowers are more representative of Valentine's Day than any other holiday, and they always look right for any occasion. Skip the roses if you're on a budget, but vases filled with daisies, lilies, or any spring flowers you can find will add color and scent to your home.

Candy is also a Valentine's staple, and there are dozens of bags of candy in the stores right now that are wrapped in red and silver foil. Fill a couple candy dishes with them.

Set out lots of white candles in different shapes and sizes, and just before your guests arrive light them all. White gives a simple, elegant touch, and doesn't look as overpowering as red.

Once the decorations are set, you can start on the food. I like to have a full dinner on the table, even if it's buffet. Appetizer, salad, main course, and dessert. You can sit down with your favorite recipes and prepare the food yourself, or purchase everything already made from your local gourmet store or a good deli. Or even a mixtue of both: create the appetizer and salad yourself, and pick up crab cakes or lemon rosemary chicken breasts and a gooey chocolate cake from the gourmet deli. Several favorite recipes of my own are listed at the bottom.

Now that the room is warm and welcoming, and the food is ready, put on your favorite music and have a great time celebrating your friendship!

Pineapple Cheese Ball

2 8 oz. packages cream cheese, softened 1 8 oz. can crushed pineapple, drained 1/4 cup finely chopped green pepper 2 Tbsp. finely chopped onion 1 tsp. seasoned salt 1 cup chopped pecans

Combine all but nuts. Mix well. Chill. Shape into a ball, press pecans all over the ball, and place on a serving plate with an assortment of crackers.

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